A charity leader facing accusations of misappropriating $23 million intended for homeless services in California seems to be avoiding the spotlight, perhaps as much as he fears prison.
Alexander Souffer, 42, has been accused by officials of living a luxurious lifestyle. During an appearance before Judge Teresa McGonigle, he made efforts to evade photographers.
After pleading not guilty and securing his release on $610,000 bail, his attorney, Michael Friedman, stated that Souffer would have “no comment” when not in front of the camera.
Prosecutors claim Souffer’s nonprofit, Abundant Blessings, improperly directed millions of taxpayer dollars meant to combat homelessness into his extravagant lifestyle. Allegedly, he spent the funds on a $7 million home in Westwood, a $125,000 Range Rover, tuition for private school for his children, and an indulgent getaway to the White Lotus Hotel in Hawaii.
Interestingly, Souffer didn’t always shy away from the camera.
Reports indicate that he previously socialized closely with Los Angeles’ Persian American community. Newly surfaced photos depict the Souffers hosting a lavish party in their sprawling Beverly Hills mansion, catering to around 300 guests in 2017.
This extravagant event reportedly cost over $100,000, featuring sushi, an open bar, and belly dancers for entertainment.
Souffer was dressed to impress, sporting a blue designer suit. His wife, Ashley Afraimian, complemented him in a white lace dress.
Ashley’s father, Saeed Aframian, has also been associated with criminal activities. In 1984, he was convicted of credit card fraud and receiving stolen property, after which he was identified as part of a gang involved in cross-border robberies.
At that time, Ashley was just a child, having been only seven when her father was taken into custody at their Bel Air residence.
“Ashley witnessed her father’s arrest and now her husband’s situation,” a source commented.
Aframian served two years before reopening another jewelry store and currently resides in a $9 million mansion in Bel Air.
The party venue belonged to Shahram Brar, who inherited a fortune from a real estate mogul. Photos from the event show Brar with his late parents, Yafa and Saeed Brar.
Brar himself has faced legal troubles, including a 2001 accusation of domestic violence against his then-wife. Court documents detailed incidents where he allegedly assaulted her.
It’s uncertain whether he faced charges, and attempts to reach him for comments were unsuccessful.
Some guests at the party and former colleagues characterized Brar as “a bit vulgar.” One remarked on the unusual presence of security, indicating that no celebrities attended.
Attendees described it as a “Kiss the Ring” atmosphere, where everyone aimed to gain favor with the most influential person in the room.
If convicted on all charges, Souffer could face a lengthy prison sentence of up to 37 years.
A source reflected, “That’s how some maintain wealth; it’s about stealing. It’s like everyone else has rules, but not him. Even when knowing what’s right, we still end up making poor decisions.”
Souffer appeared in court recently due to 18 new fraud charges filed by prosecutors, adding to the gravity of his situation.
Should he be convicted, he might again face a significant prison term.
