There has been a flurry of social media stars flaunting their wealth online, much like Omi in a Hellcat. The Youtube star boasts nearly one million followers, and often, he is seen showing off his luxury goods. Omi, real name Bill Omar Carrasquillo, is one of many everyday people to find success through social media influencing. A quick look at his Instagram shows him posing in front of his fleet of vehicles, flexing luxury brands, and boasting about his sneaker collection.
It looked as if he was living the good life without a care in the world. However, police say it was all an illusion, stating that the riches were acquired through an illegal cable TV piracy scam. It was labeled as one of the most "brazen and successful," according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
A Tough Sentencing For Omi In A Hellcat
Carrasquillo faced a slew of charges including money laundering, conspiracy, tax evasion, and copyright infringement. It is a far cry from the inspiring story of Omi's rise; the Philly native has 37 siblings, and his mother passed away from a drug overdose. His drug-dealing father taught him the game when he was just 12 years old, and Omi spent much of his childhood being moved from relatives' homes to foster care. In his 20s, he was floating in and out of the system, but he helped develop a company that soon was a multimillion-dollar business.
It's reported that the company would provide hundreds of movies to subscribers, as well as on-demand and pay-per-view deals. Omi was said to have brought in upwards of $34 million before the authorities ended his operation. He pleaded guilty, and earlier today (March 8), he was sentenced to 5.5 years in prison.
Carrasquillo Addresses The Court
Additionally, Omi has to forfeit more than $30 million in assets—which includes at least $6 million in cash. He must also turn over the luxury whips, including Porches, Lamborghinis, McLarens, and more. He further has over 12 properties that he has to give up. During sentencing, Carrasquillo apologized for his crimes and said that getting caught "saved my life."
“I really didn’t know the significance of this crime until I was picked up [by the FBI] at my home,” he said. “I feel like I let everybody down.” When he was initially investigated, he appeared on social media to say the FBI took everything from him. He further stated he was only guilty of making money.
[via]