Nikesh Ajay Patel, a notorious Orlando fraudster, was sentenced to an additional 27 years in federal prison after orchestrating a fraudulent scheme involving his ex-wife, Trisha Patel, while already serving time. The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Patel directed his wife to defraud the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in a complex scheme, adding to his extensive criminal record.
Fraudulent Scheme
Between January 2021 and December 2023, Patel recruited Trisha to pose as a representative of a Houston-based water pump manufacturer seeking to expand operations into Puerto Rico. By doing so, the Patels secured USDA guarantees for fake loans, which they later sold for $7.4 million. Both pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Nikesh was sentenced to 27 years in prison, and Trisha received four years and three months for her role in the scheme. They were also ordered to pay restitution to the USDA and four financial institutions.
Previous Convictions
Patel is already serving a 25-year sentence handed down in 2018 for defrauding the USDA of $179 million from 2010 to 2014. While on pretrial release for that case, he devised another fraud scheme to swindle $19 million, leading to an additional guilty plea in 2023. His plans to escape sentencing by fleeing to Ecuador in a private jet were thwarted when he was arrested at Gateway Kissimmee Airport.
Asset Recovery
The FBI recovered $74,545 and a 2011 BMW X7, but the Patels must pay the remaining balance as restitution. Patel reportedly used the proceeds of his crimes to purchase five hotels under the Orlando-based company Alena Hospitality.
Conclusion
This latest sentencing highlights the ongoing efforts by federal authorities to hold Patel accountable for his fraudulent activities, ensuring that his schemes will not go unpunished.