US Citizen Suspected of Wall Street Hacking, Fraud Asked for Asylum in Russia

US national Joshua Aaron suspected of participating in major money laundering scheme and hacking attacks on US financial institutions asked for asylum in Russia, a source familiar with the situation told RIA Novosti on Tuesday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — In May, the Moscow City Court found Aaron guilty of violating the conditions of his visa, fined him and ordered his deportation.

"In May there was an order for his deportation from Russia, but he applied for asylum," the source said.

According to the source, Aaron was denied his request for asylum, but he appealed that decision which led to his deportation process temporarily put on hold.

Aaron and two Israeli citizens were indicted last year in the United States on charges of money laundering, computer hacking and fraud at several financial institutions, including JPMorgan Chase Bank.