Former Jaguars employee pleaded guilty to stealing more than $22 million from the organization

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Thursday, 31-year-old Amit Patel pleaded guilty to stealing more than $22 million from the Jaguars.

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The former employee took a plea deal earlier this afternoon, admitting to using stolen money for a new car, home, and expensive watches.

Patel could face up to 30 years in prison, even after a plea deal.

Action News Jax tries asking him several questions as he exited federal court but he has nothing to say.

His hearing ended at 2:30 p.m. but he didn’t come out of the courthouse until 4:15 p.m.

Related Story: Former Jaguars employee accused of stealing more than $22M from team to buy condo, crypto, cars

Cameras aren’t allowed inside the federal court but sketches of Patel alongside his attorney were obtained.

Patel took a plea deal, admitting to defrauding the Jags and stealing more than $22 million to buy a Ponte Vedra condo, a Tesla, and a $95,000 watch.

To take the deal, he had to admit to knowingly devising in a scheme to defraud the Jaguars, emailing employers documents with false pretenses and promises about a virtual credit card program.

Patel needs to hand over his home, car, and watch and pay restitution per the plea agreement. He also cannot have contact with any Jags employees.

A sentencing date is next and he could spend decades in prison.

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