BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Marat Lerner, 42, of Brooklyn, has been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York.
Lerner, who operated The Lerner Group, targeted vulnerable clients, primarily Eastern European immigrants, offering false promises to help them avoid foreclosure and reduce mortgage debt.
Instead of delivering on his promises, Lerner took advantage of his clients’ financial struggles by pocketing their payments and continuing to solicit additional funds under false pretenses. Many of the victims sought his assistance, believing he could help reduce their monthly mortgage payments.
Lerner falsely claimed he could secure mortgage loan modifications or provide federal homeowner assistance by working directly with their lenders. As part of his scheme, Lerner gained access to his victims’ bank accounts under the guise of using the funds for mortgage payments. Instead, he transferred the money to companies and bank accounts that he controlled.
In total, Lerner stole approximately $2.5 million from 19 victims. After his January 2023 arrest, Lerner continued his fraudulent activities, stealing at least an additional $50,000 from clients after being released on bail.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office stated that Lerner’s actions caused significant financial hardship for his victims, many of whom were already struggling to meet their financial obligations.
This sentencing underscores the importance of cracking down on financial fraud, particularly schemes that target vulnerable individuals. The U.S. Attorney’s Office commended the investigation and the sentence, highlighting the determination to hold fraudsters accountable.
