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Overheard on CNN.com
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Rare diamond seized from money launderer set for online auction This flawless diamond, known as the "Golden Eye," is up for a minimum bid of $900,000. A rare 43-carat yellow diamond that belonged to a convicted money launderer will be auctioned for a minimum bid of $900,000, the U.S. Marshals Service said Thursday. The flawless diamond, known as the "Golden Eye," will be sold in an online auction on September 6 by the U.S. Marshal's Service, the Department of Justice said in a statement Thursday. The FBI seized the notable diamond in an undercover investigation that led to Ohio businessman Paul Monea's conviction for money laundering. Known for his involvement in the Tae Bo workout craze and a failed effort to market electric grill lighters as pain relievers, Monea was convicted in 2007 of conspiring to sell the diamond and a mansion once owned by former heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson in exchange for $19.5 million and a boat, according to court documents. There is no clear evidence of how Monea came to possess the diamond, according to court documents. He allegedly told others involved in the case that he owned a diamond mine in Africa and that he received the diamond from a friend. The diamond was forfeited to the government by a district court judge in 2007, the Department of Justice said. Legal claims delayed the process until March, when the final forfeiture was ordered and the U.S. Marshals Service acquired it. The U.S. Marshals Service is responsible for selling seized and forfeited properties acquired by federal criminals through illegal activities, the DOJ said. Proceeds from the auction are used to compensate victims, pay for law enforcement initiatives and support community programs, according to the Department of Justice. |
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“This Just In” is CNN's news blog. This is where you will find the latest news and information from CNN’s correspondents and sources around the world. We’ll cover fresh stories big and small – stories that are breaking, developing or otherwise driving the collective daily conversation, along with some items we find interesting and worth sharing. Our main blogger is Mallory Simon of CNN.com, with major assists from the staff of the CNN Wire and colleagues around the network. Recent Posts
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In ancient times, wealthy Kings from all around the known world built elaborate and ornate temples out of rare woods and gemstones gathered from afar. But none of them used diamonds! Why? Because diamonds were not recognized as being rare back then, being so commonly found in Africa. If not for the DeBeer's corporation keeping the vast majority of diamonds out of the marketplace, they would still be considered a common gemstone more suited for industrial uses than for weddings. Only the poorest of peoples who could not afford an emerald would be wearing diamond wedding rings.
Yes, only the poorest people in the middle ages had diamonds. While they could barely find enough food to keep them alive, they had diamond rings. Moron.
wowzers! i think they should make this a charitable event seeing how the rock was seized from some low life. Give back to the world and the people who need it. what would make you feel better a big rock, or seeing a bunch of smiles on peoples faces knowing that you in fact probably saved there life. it would be a no brainer for myself..
This thing is HUGE! Who among us, vanity aside, wouldn't want it if we had the money to buy it...with NO thought on where the money will come from to purchase it. Who among us goes anywhere where you can even wear it?
@ NIGEL POWERS
Have you ever heard of a charitable auction you STUPID FU CK people are dying all over the country and some greedy little snob is going to do what with this? might as well make it a life saving diamond for millions and just put a percentage of what is made to a charitable organization.... whos the moron now
I'm not all that into Diamonds, but I wouln't mind at least seeing how that sucker looks on my finger! BTW good story Philip
Whomever buys it (assuming it's a private individual) my phone number is 978.................
How much you wanna bet one of the Kardashian's will be wearing this thing at the next big event? I do have to admit, this would definately throw my ADOS into overdrive! ADOS = Attention Deficit.........Ohhhhhh SHINY!!!
It's just a Diamond man! awwww , woman sorry, anyhow the *thing* is pretty ... God is BEAUTIFUL
Not exactly a smart investment. It will always require a specialized buyer unless it gets cut up to be sold off.
I bid $100. And a boat.
Why is it yellow? Did it get peed on?
Why is it yellow? Did it get peeed on?
@steven: Well no. I gotta guy who makes other guys look like Winston Churchill .And as much as I admire Winston Churchill ,I wouldna wanted to see him fresh outta the shower.
@guest:
Have to remember that one, thanks!
@raven:
Neither would I!
Ewwww!
@ wondering:
Nitrogen in it.