Former NFL safety Earl Thomas lost millions of dollars in a complex financial scheme orchestrated by his estranged wife and her romantic partner, “according to federal court documents obtained by TMZ Sports”, the outlets reported.
Nina Thomas has agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud after taking more than $2.7 million from the former Baltimore Ravens star without his knowledge, “prosecutors say”, the outlets reported.
The fraudulent scheme began in September 2021, roughly a year after Nina filed for divorce from the seven-time Pro Bowler, “according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana”, the outlets reported.
The pair created an email account in the athlete’s name, opened several unauthorized bank accounts, and transferred funds directly from his legitimate accounts, “prosecutors say”, the outlets reported.
The stolen money was quickly spent on luxury items, including a $28,796 Hermès Birkin bag and a $52,890 Porsche Panamera, alongside thousands of dollars charged for plastic surgery, “prosecutors say”, the outlets reported.
Co-defendant Kevin Thompson, who was romantically involved with Nina, agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, “federal court documents” revealed, the outlets reported.
Under the terms of the plea deal, Nina faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, while both defendants remain jointly responsible for over $3.4 million in restitution, “according to the plea agreement”, the outlets reported.
Thompson previously faced additional charges following his December 2024 arrest, which included aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, “a superseding indictment” showed, the outlets reported.
Thomas spent nine seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, winning Super Bowl XLVIII before joining the Baltimore Ravens on a four-year, $55 million contract in 2019, “according to historical NFL records”, the network reported.