On February 4th, two men were arrested and charged with running a fencing operation across state lines between 2020 and 2025.
The two suspects, Dimitriy Nezhinskiy and Juan Villar, allegedly conspired with each other and additional people who were not charged to receive and purchase stolen property. This property included things like watches, handbags, and jewelry.
The scheme also involved luxury items that were stolen outside of the state of New York and transported across state lines. Once the items were secured by the two suspects, they’d utilize a New York pawn shop in the diamond district to sell the stolen goods.
Investigators allege that many of these luxury items came from as far away as South America. Court records argue that Nezhinskiy and Villar would serve as fences for burglary crews who came from South America, committing burglaries all along the way. The group of thieves reportedly would target wealthier neighborhoods and jewelry vendors while making their journey up to New York.
Court records show that Nezhinskiy is a Georgian national who lives in New Jersey. Villar lives in Queens. It’s alleged that the criminal organization the two suspects participated in is comprised mainly of foreign nationals. The entire group works together to steal, transport, sell, and share profits. The criminal group, the South American Theft Groups, and other crews were financially supported by the two suspects, encouraging them to continue their illegal operations.
Nezhinskiy has been directly connected to Bryan Leandro Herrera Maldonado, a serial burglar who was convicted of committing at least 16 residential burglaries across the U.S. between 2019 and 2020.
Evidence compiled by prosecutors reveals that phone records and video surveillance also connect Nezhinskiy to a burglary crew that struck Joe Burrow’s home. Authorities have linked Joe Burrow’s burglary to a ring of “crime tourism,” also connected to Nezhinskiy according to prosecutors.
When law enforcement agencies executed the search warrant on the suspect’s pawn shop, they uncovered countless high-end stolen watches, jewelry, and other items. They also recovered large quantities of cash and marijuana. Authorities then searched the suspect’s storage units, where they uncovered even more luxury goods, clothing, sports memorabilia, artwork, and power tools.
The two suspects face up to 10 years in prison each if convicted of the receipt of stolen goods.
Have You Been Accused of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property or a Similar Crime?
In New York, it’s a serious crime to be in possession of stolen property. This crime is divided into five categories based on the severity of the offense and whether you knew the property was stolen. Criminal possession of stolen property in the 5th degree is the least severe charge you could face, which is still a Class A misdemeanor that could result in up to a year of jail time. 1st degree criminal possession of stolen property is a Class B felony, which could result in up to 25 years in prison.
The best way to navigate your situation if you’re facing criminal charges is to hire a criminal defense attorney. Schedule a consultation with our team now to learn more about how we can help you defend yourself against your charges.
