Two men, Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov, were recently sentenced to 25 years in prison for participating in a chilling murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by the Iranian government. The men, high-ranking members of the Russian Mob, were hired to assassinate Iranian-American journalist and human rights activist Masih Alinejad in New York. The Justice Department revealed that the plot involved multiple international actors and nearly succeeded, with a hitman found outside Alinejad’s Brooklyn home carrying an AK-47-style rifle. The case underscores how far foreign powers will go to silence dissidents, and how U.S. authorities respond forcefully to such threats against American citizens.
A murder-for-hire charge is among the most severe offenses under federal law. It typically applies when an individual solicits, plans, or participates in a killing in exchange for money or something of value. Penalties vary depending on the circumstances, but defendants convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 1958 face up to life imprisonment or the death penalty if the murder is carried out. Even an unsuccessful plot, such as this one, can result in decades-long prison sentences, substantial fines, and forfeiture of assets. These laws reflect the government’s strong stance against premeditated violence for profit or political motives.
Beyond the legal consequences, those convicted of murder-for-hire face lifelong reputational destruction and the loss of any international standing or professional credibility. For individuals tied to organized crime or foreign regimes, these convictions can also trigger additional sanctions, international travel restrictions, and permanent bans on reentry into the United States. Moreover, the crimes expose networks that often lead to further indictments for conspiracy, weapons trafficking, and money laundering.
Anyone accused of participating in a murder-for-hire scheme should seek legal counsel immediately. Such cases are investigated aggressively by federal agencies like the FBI, and even peripheral involvement can lead to severe charges. A skilled criminal defense attorney can evaluate the government’s evidence, challenge surveillance or communication records, and ensure that the accused’s constitutional rights are protected. With stakes this high—potentially life in prison or worse—timely, strategic legal representation is critical to building an effective defense.
Contact our federal criminal defense team today for a confidential consultation. Your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line. At Dhar Law, LLP, our firm has extensive experience defending individuals charged with complex federal and international criminal charges.
Contact us today at 617-880-6155 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you.
