That didn't stop a judge this week from sentencing Ayvazyan, 43, and Terabelian, 37, in absentia to 17 and six years in prison, respectively. Richard Ayvazyan and his brother were also convicted of aggravated identity theft. Richard Ayvazyan of Tarzana, California, seen outside the courthouse at his trial in June. It's unclear whether Richard Ayvazyan masterminded the scheme, but of the eight people convicted so far, he was handed by far the longest sentence -- 17 years. Ram also said he'd objected to the court sentencing Richard Ayvazyan and Terabelian in absentia, adding he wanted the hearing delayed until if and when they resurfaced.

Source: CNN November 19, 2021 00:42 UTC