A high-profile Indian-origin couple in North Texas, known for their glamorous public appearances and Bollywood-style performances, has been arrested in connection with a multimillion-dollar real estate fraud case.
According to authorities, Sidhartha "Sammy" Mukherjee and his wife Sunita allegedly convinced over 100 investors to part with at least $4 million (approximately ₹33 crore) by promising investments in non-existent real estate projects, CBS News reported.
The couple's elaborate scheme has left many victims in financial distress. Prosecutors say the couple led a glamorous life to gain people's trust, hosting charity events and presenting themselves as successful businesspeople. However, their public image was just a facade to cover up their illicit activities.
Glamorous Front, Fraudulent Core
The Mukherjees built a public image of success, regularly appearing at charity galas and hosting Bollywood-style events to win the trust of their victims. Prosecutors say their lavish lifestyle was a cover for a calculated scam, designed to lure unsuspecting investors into fake real estate ventures.
Victims say they were shown forged remodeling contracts, invoices, and correspondence purportedly from the Dallas Housing Authority (DHA). However, when Detective Brian Brennan contacted the DHA, they confirmed no such projects existed. Brennan, a veteran white-collar crime investigator, described Sammy Mukherjee as “the most prolific fraudster” he’s encountered in his 23-year career.
The Fallout
Several victims reported financial devastation after investing in what they believed were legitimate ventures. One investor, Seshu Madabhushi, said he never imagined the fraud was so elaborate. Another, Terry Parvaga, warned, “They’ll make you believe they’re successful, but they’ll take every penny you have.”
Initially dismissed as civil disputes, the case gained traction in 2024 when a couple filed a police complaint about losing $325,000. Since then, forensic accountants and the FBI have joined the investigation, estimating total losses exceeding $4 million, with 20 confirmed victims and over 100 more possible.
Beyond Real Estate
Authorities allege the Mukherjees also created a fake company and employees to fraudulently obtain federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, using false payroll documents and misrepresenting fund usage. They’re also accused of scamming elderly individuals, threatening them with arrest to extort money.
Legal Trouble and Immigration Status
The couple faces charges including first-degree felony theft, which carries a possible sentence of 5 to 99 years in prison. While Sammy Mukherjee was granted bail at $500,000, he was later taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is now being held at a detention center near Fort Worth.
Their immigration status remains unclear, as they reportedly came to the U.S. seeking asylum from India. Records also show that Sammy Mukherjee has pending fraud warrants in Mumbai.
When contacted previously, Sammy denied all charges, claiming he was being targeted by those “jealous of his success.”
The investigation is ongoing.
