Alex Spirikaitis is the CEO of the now-shuttered Taupa Lithuanian Credit Union, which had more than 11,00 members and assets of nearly $24 million.
On Monday, the Department of Commerce announced it had ordered the credit union shut down. Vickie Anderson of the FBI’s Cleveland office says a federal warrant was issued for Spirkiaiti’s arrest shortly after.
“The actual charge on the arrest warrant is 'false credit institution entries', which kinda falls under the `embezzlement’ category,” she says.
Solon Police and the FBI surrounded Spirikaitis’ house Tuesday night, but when they finally entered today, they found he wasn’t there.
The FBI has offered a cash reward for information leading to Spirkaitis’ arrest. He’s described as 5' 11", 225 pounds, with green eyes, a bald head and possibly a goatee.
Anderson says while Spirikaitis is not believed to be armed and dangerous, they're not asking anyone to approach him.
"We’re just asking that if you happen to see him or if you have any information indicating his whereabouts, to please call that information in. They can provide that information anonymously, if they so desire.”
As for customers of the Taupa Lithuanian Credit Union, an Ohio Commerce Department spokesman says member deposits are insured up to $250,000.
The Cleveland FBI Office can be reached at 216-522-1400.