Santa Barbara Real Estate

Usher, Adam Lambert Targeted in Open House Robbery Scheme

Prosecutors say two men in Los Angeles were arrested after using open houses to rob the homes of celebrities, including singers Usher and Adam Lambert.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office said Thursday that 32-year-old realtor Jason Emil Yaselli and 33-year-old Benjamin Ackerman burglarized celebrity homes and other residences between 2016 and 2018. The district attorney’s office said the open houses helped them facilitate the crimes.

Prosecutors say the men face several charges, including money laundering, residential burglary and identity theft. The men are accused of stealing more than $500,000 through fraud and embezzlement.

Yaselli is expected to be arraigned Friday.

Ackerman pleaded not guilty to the allegations during his Aug. 19 arraignment. His attorney said their client has been released from jail, never charged, and claims innocence.

Mark Danforth Lomas

Recent Posts

The Case for Opening State Street

For decades, State Street has been the rhythmic pulse of Santa Barbara—a historic boulevard connecting…

1 day ago

Rincon Classic Update

The legendary Rincon Classic is back for 2026, bringing together the best local talent and…

3 days ago

Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2026

The 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is set to transform the "American Riviera" into a…

1 week ago

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival Poster

The poster for the 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF), created by local artist Baret Boisson,…

1 week ago

Year End Analysis, and 2026 Outlook

As we close the books on 2025, the South Santa Barbara County real estate market…

2 weeks ago

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

You may be wondering why a real estate blog would post something about Martin Luther King.…

2 weeks ago