California Family's $18 Million COVID Fraud Inspires Senate Bill to Combat 'Fraudster Families'
A California family that defrauded the government of $18 million in COVID-19 relief funds has inspired a new Senate bill aimed at cracking down on 'fraudster families.' Richard Ayvazyan and his wife, Marietta Terabelian, were convicted for swindling funds, which they used to purchase luxury items such as a Harley-Davidson, diamonds, and homes. They fled the U.S. after their conviction, leaving their children, but were later apprehended in Montenegro and are now serving prison sentences. Their scheme involved using stolen identities of foreign exchange students, the elderly, and deceased individuals. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) has championed the 'No Cash for Cohabitating Kins of Crooks Act,' which seeks to prevent individuals living with convicted criminals or fraudsters from receiving federal grants, loans, subawards, or reimbursements. The bill includes exceptions for spouses living separately or survivors of domestic abuse. Senator Ernst highlighted this case as part of her 'Squeal Award' series, which ... 
