Story perspectives

11 Charged in $17M Identity Theft Scheme Targeting Seniors

3/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Federal prosecutors charged 11 defendants, including Amen Vardevaryan, with stealing $17 million from elderly Los Angeles homeowners through identity theft.
The scheme involved gaining victims' trust, obtaining personal information, and submitting fraudulent loan applications.
They opened bank accounts in victims' names to secure loans against their properties.
Authorities reported about $6 million stolen before the operation was shut down.
Each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

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Story summary

Federal prosecutors charged 11 defendants, including Amen Vardevaryan, with stealing $17 million from elderly Los Angeles homeowners through identity theft.
The scheme involved gaining victims' trust, obtaining personal information, and submitting fraudulent loan applications.
They opened bank accounts in victims' names to secure loans against their properties.
Authorities reported about $6 million stolen before the operation was shut down.
Each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.