What To Watch For
Ghomi faces a maximum of 20 years in prison if convicted.
Big Number
Nearly $10.5 million. That is about how much Ghomi paid to construct his mansion after purchasing a vacant lot on the Newport Coast for almost $4.5 million.
Read more Makeup Mogul Anastasia Soare Came To America With ‘Not Even A Coin’
Key Background
Ghomi’s tech company brings in over $10 million in sales each year while serving the Iranian government and private companies, some of which are subject to U.S. sanctions, according to the Justice Department. The CEO purchased and organized the shipment of U.S. technology for his company, using personal eBay and PayPal accounts to make over 400 purchases of computer-networking equipment that was directed through intermediaries in the United Arab Emirates. Ghomi’s arrest comes as President Donald Trump has either reimposed or expanded sanctions against Iran’s financial institutions, manufacturing companies and energy exports amid an ongoing war against the country.
Read more Bank Of America CEO Moynihan: Consumer Spending Still Resilient Despite Strains
Tangent
Trump used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act that Ghomi is accused of violating as justification for his sweeping tariffs impacting nearly every country, though the Supreme Court struck down the tariffs earlier this year and ruled earlier this year the law does not give Trump the power to enact them.
Read more Bessent Admits Telling Bill Pulte He ‘Was Going To Kick His A- -’