On Monday, a Los Angeles couple was sentenced to federal prison for stealing $20 million in COVID-19 relief funds. They were convicted in absentia and have been fugitives since August.
Richard Ayvazyan, 43, was sentenced to 17 years in prison. His wife and co-defendant, Marietta Terabelian, 37, was sentenced to six years behind bars. Ayvazyan’s brother, Artur, 41, received a five-year sentence.
In June, Richard Ayvazyan, Artur Ayvazyan, and Terabelian were convicted of conspiracy, bank and wire fraud. Richard and Artur Ayvazyan were additionally convicted of aggravated identity theft. They used several fake and stolen identities to submit 150 applications for COVID-19 meant for small businesses.
“The defendants used the COVID-19 crisis to steal millions of dollars in much-needed government aid intended for people and businesses suffering from the economic effects of the worst pandemic in a century,” said U.S. Attorney Tracy L. Wilkison in a statement.
However, according to federal officials, the trio removed their electronic tracking devices in August while awaiting sentencing. They have been on the run since then. The FBI is offering a $20,000 reward for any information leading to the fugitive’s arrest.
Four others have pleaded guilty in connection to the case. A fifth person was waiting to be sentenced but has since requested to withdraw her plea.
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