The Justice Department alleges the Estonian national “carried out a scheme to obtain nearly $2.2 million from multiple victims using false representations, fabricated identities, and deceptive communications.”

“The indictment alleges that Kriisa posed as various individuals — including fictional contacts and family members — and falsely claimed he and his family were in danger, that his mother needed cancer treatment, or that family property required urgent financial support,” a press release read.

Kriisa played at Kentucky, Arizona, West Virginia, and Cincinnati over six seasons.

ESPN shared further:

According to the Department of Justice, Kriisa allegedly ran a four-year scheme that involved convincing one victim to send him money by saying his mother had cancer and needed treatment.

By posing as his mother in another scheme, he allegedly told one victim he needed money to “save” the family’s farm. He also allegedly acted as a woman named “Irene” to sign a fraudulent promise to repay one of the victims $100,000 by a February deadline, per the DOJ’s indictment.

“Financial fraud schemes erode trust and cause real harm to victims who believed they were helping someone in need,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey.

“Our office will continue to pursue individuals who exploit others through deception. We are committed to holding them accountable for their actions,” he continued.

“The government is seeking forfeiture of any proceeds traceable to the alleged offenses, including a money judgment of approximately $2.2 million,” the press release stated.

More from the Associated Press:

Kriisa led the Pac-12 in assists during his two full seasons at Arizona before transferring to West Virginia. Kriisa was suspended the first nine games of his lone season at West Virginia after admitting he received impermissible benefits while at Arizona.

Kriisa transferred to Kentucky in 2024, but was limited to nine games due to a foot injury. He transferred to Cincinnati for his final year of eligibility and started 12 games before suffering a separated shoulder in February.

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