The U.S. Department of Justice has unsealed charges against three individuals connected to a foiled Iranian plot to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump before the 2024 election. According to a criminal complaint filed in a Manhattan federal court, Farhad Shakeri, 51, an Iranian national, was tasked by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard to surveil and plan an assassination targeting Trump due to his opposition to the Iranian regime. Shakeri allegedly coordinated the plot using a network of associates, including two New York-based individuals: Carlisle Rivera, 49, and Jonathon Loadholt, 36, who were arrested for their roles in surveilling the target. The men were promised $100,000 for their efforts.
The investigation, led by the FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the DEA, uncovered the assassination plot. The complaint reveals that Shakeri had connections to individuals he met while serving time in the U.S., highlighting the extensive reach of Iran’s intelligence network. Shakeri remains at large, believed to be in Iran, while Rivera and Loadholt face serious charges in connection with the assassination plan.
For those facing charges or concerns about their legal rights, consulting a criminal defense attorney in NYC is crucial. A criminal defense lawyer near me can offer guidance and representation to individuals involved in criminal cases, including serious matters like conspiracy and national security threats. For those injured in incidents related to criminal activity, seeking a New York personal injury lawyer may be essential for securing justice and compensation. With the complexities of criminal charges and the potential for severe penalties, working with an experienced attorney in NY can help ensure the best possible outcome for those involved in such high-stakes legal situations.