Florida Man Sentenced to Over Four Years in Prison for Defrauding NYC Landlords and Pandemic Relief Program

The “Wolf of Airbnb” Brought to Justice: Florida Man Sentenced to Over Four Years in Prison for Fraud

NEW YORK — A Florida man who proudly proclaimed himself as the “Wolf of Airbnb” has been sentenced to over four years in prison for defrauding New York City landlords and a federal pandemic-relief government program.

Konrad Bicher, 32, of Hialeah, Florida, received his sentence in Manhattan federal court by Judge Lorna G. Schofield. Bicher pleaded guilty to a wire fraud charge a year ago, leading to his prison term of four years and three months. He was also ordered to forfeit $1.7 million and pay $2.2 million in restitution. At his sentencing, Bicher chose not to speak.

Prosecutors revealed that Bicher operated at least 18 Manhattan apartments as “mini-hotels” while using the pandemic as an excuse to avoid paying landlords over $1 million in rent from 2019 to April 2022. Additionally, he obtained government-guaranteed loans through a program intended to aid small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a sentencing submission, Bicher’s attorney argued for leniency, placing blame on landlords for some of the apartment troubles. However, prosecutors countered by stating that Bicher fought lawsuits from landlords by falsely claiming coronavirus-related hardships and lying about his residency and use of the units to take advantage of tenant protections in New York City. They also revealed that Bicher was living in Florida during the fraud and traveling for leisure.

Bicher’s boastful nature was highlighted by his self-proclaimed title as the “Wolf of Airbnb,” likening himself to the infamous “Wolf of Wall Street,” Jordan Belfort. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized that despite Bicher’s grandiose self-image, he would face consequences for his fraudulent actions.

Williams stated, “But as today’s sentence underscores, those who partake in such callous and fraudulent conduct will answer for their crimes, no matter their self-given title.” The case serves as a reminder that individuals engaging in deceitful behavior will ultimately be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their self-appointed monikers.