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Case Summary
United States v. Sakhai
United States v. Sakhai, No. 04-cr-583, (S.D.N.Y. July 6, 2005) (plea agreement).
See also: Takeuchi v. Sakhai, No. 05-cv-06925 (JSR) (S.D.N.Y. Jan. 17, 2006).
Précis
Ely Sakhai, a New York gallery owner, bought original paintings and had other artists make copies. Sakhai would then sell the copy in Asia (often with either the original certificate of authenticity or a copy of the original certificate) and sell the original painting in the Western market. This activity continued from 1985 until 2003. Following a six-year FBI investigation, Sakhai and his gallery assistant, Houshi Sandjaby, were indicted for conspiracy. In addition, Sakhai was indicted for eight counts of wire fraud and mail
fraud
The intentional use of deceit, a trick or some dishonest means to deprive another of his money, property or legal right, either as a cause of action or as a fatal element in the action itself.
fraud . . . .
Associated Legal Decision(s)
Associated Statutes and/or Legislation
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