Basketball Star ‘Sold His Organs’ in Wild Fraud Scheme

Former Kentucky basketball player Kerr Kriisa has been indicted over an alleged $2.2 million fraud scheme that authorities say involved fake identities, heartbreaking lies and even a bizarre promise to sell his own organs.

The 6-foot-3 guard allegedly tricked multiple victims into handing over nearly $2.2 million by using false stories, fabricated identities and deceptive communications, according to the Department of Justice.

One of the most shocking claims in the indictment alleges that Kriisa told a victim in November 2022 that he would sell his organs in order to repay her.

Kriisa was arrested Friday in Lexington, Kentucky.

The well-known college basketball journeyman played for several major programs during his career, including Kentucky, Arizona, West Virginia and Cincinnati.

He spent last season at Cincinnati, where he averaged 5.8 points and 3.0 assists per game. However, a separated shoulder forced him to miss much of the season.

Federal prosecutors allege that Kriisa’s scheme began in 2022, when he reportedly told two victims that his mother needed cancer treatment and that his family farm was in danger of being lost.

Authorities claim those stories were false.

According to the indictment, Kriisa also allegedly posed as a woman named Irene and signed a fraudulent promise stating that one victim would be repaid $100,000 by February.

Prosecutors further allege that Kriisa sometimes convinced the victims to send money to one another under false pretenses, helping keep the scheme going.

“Financial fraud schemes erode trust and cause real harm to victims who believed they were helping someone in need,” U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey said in a statement.

“Our office will continue to pursue individuals who exploit others through deception. We are committed to holding them accountable for their actions.”

Following the indictment, the federal government is seeking the forfeiture of any money or property connected to the alleged crimes. That includes a judgment of approximately $2.2 million.

Kriisa’s arrest came just days before he was expected to suit up for La Familia, Kentucky’s alumni basketball team, in The Basketball Tournament, which begins July 18.

He has since been released from the team.