Igor Mosieev, 59, of Newton, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty today to a brazen business loan fraud scheme that bilked Eastern Bank out of over $90,000. In federal court in Boston, Mosieev admitted to two counts of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft, capping a years-long scam built on stolen identity and insider access.
The plot turned on Alexander Grinis, 47, of Jamaica Plain, a manager at Eastern Bank’s Auburndale branch, who allegedly used his position to help Mosieev open accounts using another person’s Social Security number and driver’s license—without that individual’s knowledge. Starting in February 2015, Grinis enabled Mosieev to set up personal and business accounts under the victim’s name, paving the way for a deeper fraud.
Mosieev then forged the victim’s signature on two business loan applications under the name TFC Enterprises, LLC. Grinis, acting as bank manager, falsely certified that all procedures were followed, clearing both loans for approval. The funds were funneled into the business checking account, where Mosieev again forged the victim’s name on checks to siphon money for his own personal expenses.
With Grinis’ help, Mosieev also wired portions of the stolen funds overseas—to Russia, Canada, and other international destinations—under the guise of legitimate business transactions. Both loans defaulted, leaving Eastern Bank with total losses exceeding $90,000. The victim remained unaware their identity had been weaponized until authorities uncovered the fraud.
Mosieev now faces up to 30 years in prison for each bank fraud count, a $1 million fine, and five years of supervised release. The aggravated identity theft charge carries a mandatory two-year sentence, to be served consecutively, plus a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for August 6, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Field Division, announced the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura J. Kaplan is prosecuting the case. Grinis remains charged and presumed innocent until proven guilty. The indictment’s allegations, as always, are not proof of guilt—only the court can deliver that verdict.
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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