A former senior FBI official and another American have been arrested for illegally aiding a Russian oligarch. The two men allegedly agreed to launder money with billionaire Oleg Deripaska to avoid sanctions imposed on him in the aftermath of the conflict in Ukraine.
The New York State Department published their indictment on Monday – the suspects have been detained since Saturday, according to the statement. What is also notable about the case is that the former FBI employee was responsible for investigations against oligarchs, including Deripaska, when he was with the federal police.
Together with the second American, who is of Russian descent and worked as a court translator, he recently tried to lift the sanctions against the billionaire.
Employees also traveled to Vienna
The indictment also contains references to Austria: the former FBI employee traveled to London and Vienna during negotiations to meet Deripaska and others here. In the electronic communication between the two suspects and another associate of the Russian oligarch, Deripaska was never mentioned by name, but the “person” and “our friend from Vienna” and the “Viennese customer” were mentioned.
Prosecutor Damian Williams said: “This agency will continue to prosecute those who violate US sanctions imposed in response to Russian belligerence in Ukraine to line their own pockets.”
Up to 20 years in prison
Deripaska herself was charged with sanctions violations in the United States in September. According to the US Justice Department, Deripaska, who was not in the US, could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
