Federal Prosecutors Say Bucks Co-Owner Wesley Edens Was Targeted in Blackmail Scheme

Federal prosecutors allege that Wesley Edens, co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks and co-founder of Fortress Investment Group, was targeted in a blackmail scheme by a Chinese-born divorcée following a personal relationship.

Prosecutors alleged that after the two became involved, Luo later demanded $1.2 billion — roughly half of Edens’ estimated fortune — and threatened to release compromising videos and photos. (Photo: New Fortress Energy)

According to a report by the New York Post, prosecutors said Changli “Sophia” Luo, 46, contacted Edens through LinkedIn in 2022.

Prosecutors alleged that after the two became involved, Luo later demanded $1.2 billion — roughly half of Edens’ estimated fortune — and threatened to release compromising videos and photos.

Court documents cited by prosecutors alleged that Luo engaged in a months-long extortion campaign after Edens did not respond to her messages.

Federal investigators reportedly searched Luo’s Manhattan apartment in May 2025 and recovered phones allegedly containing manipulated and explicit material involving Edens.

Prosecutors said Luo was arrested on June 14 at John F. Kennedy International Airport while attempting to board a flight to China.