Stephen Cloobeck, a Las Vegas real estate billionaire, has ended his engagement with Adva Lavie, a former Penthouse Pet, after she was charged in connection with an alleged dating scam that federal prosecutors say targeted wealthy men across multiple states. The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada under case number 2:26-cr-00184.
Background
Lavie gained recognition as a Penthouse Magazine model, earning the title "Penthouse Pet." She became engaged to Cloobeck, founder of Diamond Resorts International, a vacation ownership company based in Las Vegas. The couple's relationship drew attention in celebrity and business circles before their engagement abruptly ended following her arrest.
The Charges
Adva Lavie faces charges including wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, according to the criminal complaint filed by federal prosecutors with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada. The FBI Las Vegas Field Office initiated the investigation after receiving complaints from multiple victims who alleged they were defrauded through an elaborate dating scheme spanning several states.
"We believe there are additional victims who have not yet come forward," said Special Agent Maria Reyes, speaking on behalf of the FBI Las Vegas Division. "Anyone with information should contact authorities immediately."
Federal investigators allege that Lavie used her public profile as a former Penthouse Pet to gain trust and access to affluent men seeking romantic connections. Court filings indicate she solicited money from victims under false pretenses, creating elaborate stories designed to appeal to wealthy individuals interested in dating someone of her public notoriety.
Key Takeaways
- Stephen Cloobeck has ended his engagement with Adva Lavie following her arrest on federal fraud charges
- The case was filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada under case number 2:26-cr-00184
- Charges include wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, according to the criminal complaint
- The FBI Las Vegas Field Office is handling the investigation with prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada
- Multiple victims have come forward with complaints before her arrest, though investigators believe additional potential victims remain unidentified
What's Next
Investigators continue to urge any additional potential victims to come forward with information about their experiences. Lavie is expected to make an initial appearance in federal court in Las Vegas as the case proceeds through the judicial system.