‘Bollywood’ Indian couple charged in multimillion-dollar fraud scheme in Texas

Sidhartha “Sammy” Mukherjee and his wife Sunita Mukherjee were arrested in June and charged with felony theft after authorities uncovered a fraudulent real estate investment operation that allegedly scammed investors out of over $4 million. The couple reportedly lured victims to invest in projects that never existed.

Following his arrest and release on bail, Sammy Mukherjee was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is currently being held at a detention facility in Fort Worth, Texas. Reports suggest he may also be wanted for fraud in India.

“In [my] 23 years, [Sammy Mukherjee] is probably the most prolific fraudster I've seen,” explained Detective Brian Brennan of the Euless Police Department, according to CBS News.

In 2024, a couple revealed they had lost $325,000 in a real estate scheme. Detective Brennan initially believed it was a mere civil dispute, but realized “this was much larger than initially reported.” Brennan found forged documents, including fake invoices and remodeling contracts.

“The level of counterfeit documents … it had to be a full-time job for him to do that,” Brennan explained.

Forensic accountants working with the FBI traced the funds and found more than $4 million in losses. Investors believe more than 100 individuals may have been affected by the scheme.

The Mukherjees also allegedly submitted a fraudulent application for a federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, listing fake employees and fabricated company records. Authorities say they went as far as sending threatening emails to elderly victims, warning them of arrest unless they made payments.

Despite the ongoing fraud, the couple maintained a public image, even headlining a 2024 gala hosted by the Indian Traditions & Cultural Society of North America.

If convicted, the Mukherjees face between five and 99 years in prison. Federal records have yet to clarify their immigration status.