Overview
- The Wall Street Journal named Edens as the unnamed billionaire in the indictment, and his representative confirmed he was the target.
- Prosecutors say Changli “Sophia” Luo ran a months-long shakedown, demanding about $1.2 billion and threatening to release sex videos and photos.
- FBI agents searching Luo’s apartment found phones hidden in a laundry basket and a box of sanitary pads, including one with pornographic images edited to show Edens’ face.
- A private Zoom mediation overseen by a former judge led to a $6.5 million settlement, including $1 million paid upfront.
- Luo was arrested at JFK while trying to fly to China, has pleaded not guilty to four federal counts, is out on a $500,000 bond under home detention, and is set for trial later this year as Edens’ spokesperson says he expects to testify.