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former University of Virginia football player and NFL player has been indicted on federal fraud charges, potentially facing decades in prison. Christopher A. Harrison, a 52-year-old developer, was charged with wire fraud, mail fraud, engaging in monetary transactions with criminally derived property, and aggravated identity theft.

    Prosecutors allege that Harrison skimmed loan proceeds meant for two real estate projects: the Model Tobacco complex in South Richmond and the Whitaker Park project in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He allegedly used some of this money to buy luxury items, including $60,000 spent on Rolex watches, as well as personal mortgage payments, landscaping services at his home, and tuition for his child.

    The indictment also connects Harrison to a notorious "eyesore" in Central Virginia - the old Ramada Inn in Petersburg. Prosecutors claim that Harrison used embezzled funds to pay legal fees related to a lawsuit over renovating the hotel and surrounding area. He sold the property back to the City of Petersburg in 2022.

    Harrison was a standout offensive lineman at UVA in the mid-1990s and later played four seasons in the NFL before entering real estate. If convicted, he faces a possible prison sentence exceeding 30 years, although the DOJ notes that typical sentences for these crimes are less than the maximum penalties. This is a developing story.