Satellite TV host pleads guilty in bogus art scam
A satellite TV show host has pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from an investigation into bogus artwork sold through televised auctions that defrauded customers of more than $20 million.
Kristine Eubanks, 49, of La Canada Flintridge pleaded guilty Monday in a Los Angeles courtroom to one count each of conspiracy and tax evasion. She faces up to 10 years in prison when she is sentenced Sept. 24, prosecutors said.
Eubanks’ husband, Gerald Sullivan, 51, pleaded guilty April 2 to one count each of conspiracy and failing to file tax returns. He faces up to six years in prison at sentencing in September.
Authorities said the couple acknowledged duping more than 10,000 customers through their “Fine Art Treasures Gallery” show, which aired on DirecTV and Dish Network.
The couple also said they rigged auctions by creating false and inflated bids for art and jewelry sold during the live auctions, prosecutors said.
Nearly $4 million and various pieces of artwork were seized when the couple were arrested.
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