Johnny Petrosyants, a longtime friend of former NYC Mayor Eric Adams, was charged with aggravated identity theft and healthcare fraud involving $15 million in false insurance claims. Prosecutors allege he and co-conspirators submitted phony medical bills under unlicensed providers’ names to auto insurers under New York’s “no-fault” law. The four-count indictment includes wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy charges.

FBI agents arrested Petrosyants, 44, Tuesday night, marking his second criminal case tied to insurance fraud. In 2014, he and twin Robert pleaded guilty to similar offenses but were not charged this time. Adams defended their prior relationship, calling it a “mistake,” while Robert denied involvement, stating, “I don’t even know what this is all about.” Petrosyants remains in custody without comment.

The case deepens scrutiny of Adams’ ties to associates with legal troubles.