Federal authorities have arrested a California-based businessman accused of orchestrating a sophisticated, decade-long scheme to illegally export sensitive U.S. technology to Iran, according to recent court filings and statements from the U.S. Department of Justice.
The defendant, 63-year-old Jamshid Golmey of Newport Coast, California, is alleged to have violated U.S. sanctions laws by facilitating the shipment of American-made computer networking equipment to Iranian government entities and organizations linked to the country’s military and nuclear programs.
Federal Raid Targets Luxury California Property
As part of the investigation, federal agents recently executed a search warrant at Golmey’s luxury Newport Coast residence, a property reportedly valued at approximately $35 million. Investigators believe the home may have been purchased using proceeds connected to the alleged illegal export operation.
Authorities describe Golmey as the founder and owner of a technology company with operations in Iran. Prosecutors claim he played a central role in acquiring U.S.-origin networking hardware and arranging its transfer to Iran through a network of intermediaries and overseas entities.
Alleged Scheme Spanned More Than a Decade
According to federal prosecutors, the alleged operation ran from 2011 through 2023. During that period, Golmey allegedly used personal online marketplace accounts, payment platforms, front companies, and freight forwarding services located in the United Arab Emirates to conceal the true destination of the technology shipments.
The U.S. government alleges that these exports were carried out without obtaining the required licenses from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which administers and enforces U.S. economic sanctions.
Investigators estimate that more than 250 metric tons of networking and communications equipment were transported to Iran between 2014 and 2018 alone.
Serious National Security Concerns
U.S. officials have emphasized the national security implications of the case. Prosecutors allege that the equipment ultimately supported Iranian government agencies and organizations involved in military and nuclear-related activities.
In a statement released by federal authorities, prosecutors indicated that the alleged actions enabled sanctioned entities to gain access to technology that would otherwise have been restricted under U.S. law.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by U.S. law enforcement agencies to prevent sensitive technologies from reaching countries subject to extensive economic sanctions.
Potential Penalties
Golmey has been charged with conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), one of the primary laws used to enforce U.S. sanctions programs.
If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison.
In addition to the sanctions-related charge, authorities are reportedly examining potential allegations involving money laundering, tax violations, and other financial crimes. However, those matters remain under investigation, and no convictions have been secured.
The case serves as a reminder of the significant legal risks associated with violating U.S. export controls and sanctions regulations. Federal agencies continue to monitor international trade transactions closely, particularly those involving advanced technology products that could have military or strategic applications.
As the legal proceedings move forward, additional details may emerge regarding the scope of the alleged operation, the entities involved, and the financial networks used to facilitate the shipments.
