Jen Shah, star of the reality television series Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, has pleaded guilty to fraud charges in a case that has drawn international attention. The plea was entered in a New York federal court on Monday, just as her trial was set to begin.
Shah admitted to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a telemarketing scheme that defrauded hundreds of victims between 2012 and March 2021. In a prepared statement, she acknowledged her wrongdoing and apologised for the harm caused. Prosecutors revealed that Shah used relatives' names on financial records and encrypted apps to communicate with co-conspirators.
Under a plea deal, prosecutors dropped a money laundering charge. Shah now faces a sentencing hearing tentatively scheduled for November, with prosecutors seeking up to 14 years in prison, restitution of over $9 million, and forfeiture of $6 million. She had initially faced up to 50 years if convicted at trial.
The case has been the subject of a Hulu documentary, which Shah unsuccessfully attempted to use to have the charges dismissed, arguing it would prejudice potential jurors. Shah is the most prominent Real Housewives cast member to face criminal charges, though several others have had legal issues.
