NEWPORT BEACH (Diya TV) — Federal agents arrested an Iranian-American technology executive Wednesday during a predawn raid at his multimillion-dollar mansion in Newport Beach, accusing him of illegally supplying U.S. computer hardware to Iran’s military and nuclear programs.
Authorities arrested Jamshid Ghomi, 63, at his home in the exclusive Newport Coast community. Prosecutors allege he violated U.S. sanctions laws by helping export American computer networking equipment to Iran through a complex scheme designed to conceal the transactions. The arrest marks a significant development in an ongoing federal effort to enforce sanctions against Iran and prevent the transfer of sensitive technology that could support military or nuclear activities.
Dozens of federal agents gathered before sunrise in Newport Beach before moving toward Ghomi’s residence. Witnesses reported seeing agents in tactical gear arrive in a convoy and surround the luxury property. Authorities secured the area and called for Ghomi to exit the residence. Agents then took him into custody without incident. The mansion, located within a gated coastal community, is valued at approximately $35 million. Federal prosecutors indicated they intend to seek forfeiture of the property as part of the case. Ghomi is expected to appear in federal court in Santa Ana later Wednesday.
Federal prosecutors charged Ghomi with conspiracy to violate the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, a law that gives the U.S. government authority to regulate and restrict economic transactions involving sanctioned countries. According to court documents, Ghomi allegedly sold U.S.-origin computer networking components to entities connected to the Iranian government. Authorities claim the equipment supported military and nuclear-related operations.
Prosecutors allege Ghomi earned millions of dollars through the transactions. They also claim he used a network of companies and intermediaries to disguise the true destination of the products and avoid detection by U.S. authorities. The charges stem from a broader investigation into efforts to bypass American sanctions imposed on Iran.
Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor in Los Angeles, said authorities plan to pursue both criminal penalties and asset seizures.
“Ghomi is accused of aiding our declared enemies by selling U.S.-origin computer networking parts to Iran and earning millions of dollars in violation of U.S. sanction laws,” Essayli said in a statement.
He added that prosecutors will seek an appropriate prison sentence if Ghomi is convicted. Authorities also plan to pursue the seizure of assets connected to the alleged offenses, including the Newport Beach mansion. The U.S. government has long maintained strict sanctions on Iran. Officials argue that such measures help limit access to technology and resources that could strengthen the country’s military and nuclear capabilities.
