Court Sentences Man to Life for Scottsdale Murder
Robert Celifie received a life sentence for his role in the 2022 murder-for-hire plot of a mobile barber.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Financial Crime
A judge has sentenced Robert Celifie to life in prison following his conviction for the murder-for-hire of Ilya Shimonov. Shimonov, a mobile barber, was killed in a Scottsdale parking lot in early 2022.
Why it matters
The conviction concludes a lengthy investigation into a complex plot that spanned multiple states and required extensive digital forensic analysis. It brings a final legal resolution to the coordinated effort to orchestrate the death of the victim.
Robert Celifie received a life sentence in October 2026 after being found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and burglary. His accomplice, Chaze Cable, was previously convicted of the same charges in 2025.
The players
Robert Celifie
He was the mastermind behind the murder-for-hire plot who provided instructions and equipment for the killing.
Ilya Shimonov
He was a mobile barber who ran his business out of a converted school bus.
Chaze Cable
He served as the gunman in the murder and was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and burglary.
The details
Prosecutors established that Celifie provided the gun and vehicle used by Chaze Cable to kill Shimonov, who was operating his business from a school bus. The investigation relied on tracing the victim's stolen phone to Las Vegas and Los Angeles, involving terabytes of data analysis.
Timeline
January 3, 2022: Ilya Shimonov was killed in a Scottsdale hotel parking lot.
2025: Chaze Cable was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and burglary.
August 2026: Robert Celifie was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and burglary.
October 2026: Robert Celifie was sentenced to life in prison.
Legal Context
This case follows the pattern established by the 2025 conviction of Chaze Cable by ensuring all co-conspirators face maximum legal penalties. The sentencing marks the end of a multi-state investigation that reflects increasing complexity in how authorities prosecute contract killings.
The conclusion of this case offers residents closure regarding the high-profile 2022 incident that occurred at a local hotel. Authorities have successfully resolved the legal proceedings surrounding this violent crime, ensuring the individuals responsible remain incarcerated.
The takeaway
This case highlights the reach of modern digital forensics in tracking suspects across state lines through mobile data. It serves as a reminder that complex multi-state conspiracies remain subject to rigorous investigation and long-term prosecution.
Further reading
Learn more about local investigations in the Financial Crime section.
