Former college basketball player has been indicted on five federal wire fraud charges, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney .
Federal prosecutors allege that Kriisa, 25, orchestrated a fraud scheme between 2022 and June 2, 2026, while living in and elsewhere. According to the indictment, he is accused of using false identities, fabricated stories, and deceptive communications to obtain nearly $2.2 million from multiple victims.
The indictment alleges that Kriisa repeatedly used emotional appeals to convince victims to send money. Prosecutors claim he falsely stated that he and his family were in danger, that his mother required cancer treatment, and that family property urgently needed financial assistance. Authorities also allege he posed as fictional contacts and family members to reinforce the alleged scheme.
According to court documents, Kriisa allegedly persuaded two victims to make repeated payments over several years. Investigators further allege that he sometimes directed one victim to transfer money to another under false pretenses. The indictment identifies five specific wire transmissions that form the basis of the federal charges.
Prosecutors also allege that in April 2025, Kriisa signed a written agreement promising to repay one victim $100,000 by February 2026. They contend that the repayment agreement was itself part of the alleged fraudulent conduct.
In a statement, Matthew L. Harvey said financial fraud schemes cause significant harm to victims who believe they are helping someone in genuine need. He added that federal authorities remain committed to pursuing those accused of exploiting others through deception.
If convicted, prosecutors are seeking the forfeiture of proceeds connected to the alleged offenses, including a money judgment of approximately $2.2 million.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas, while the is leading the investigation.
During his college basketball career, Kriisa played for the , , , and .
An indictment is a formal accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Kriisa is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
