BROOKLYN, N.Y. — New York Democratic Rep. Yvette Clarke refused to answer questions Tuesday about former IT staffer Imran Awan, who was charged by federal authorities last week for bank fraud.

Awan, who was arrested last month as he tried to board a plane to Pakistan from Washington, wired nearly $300k to the country before his planned departure. His wife Hina was also indicted but managed to escape authorities months ago after fleeing to Pakistan herself.

Clarke fired Awan and his brothers, who worked as Capitol Hill IT staffers with him, months before law enforcement announced last February that they were investigating the men for robbery and breaching of security IT protocol.

The Daily Caller News Foundation’s Luke Rosiak reported Sunday that Clarke agreed last year to sign away $120,000 of missing computer equipment for the two former IT aides who authorities now believe stole the gear from Congress. According to the DCNF, the missing equipment from Clarke’s office included iPhones and iPads. (RELATED: House Democrat’s Office Approved $120k Write-off Linked To Awan Brothers)

Charges against Imran force him to remain in the United States, while investigators continue to look into other aspects of the case. His wife, however, could become a fugitive if she does not return to the U.S. and misses her arraignment.

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