Kosta Diamantis, a former high-ranking budget official in Connecticut, is currently at large after fleeing the United States to avoid a scheduled prison sentence. Diamantis, who previously served as the deputy budget director and chief of school construction funding, was convicted last year on 21 counts of bribery, extortion, conspiracy, and making false statements. He was scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, September 17, 2026, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, but instead of appearing in court, he escaped to Greece, where he holds dual citizenship. According to prosecutors, Diamantis traveled from Connecticut to Florida, took a boat to the Bahamas, and then flew to Europe using a Greek passport. His U.S. passport remains in government custody. A bench warrant has been issued for his arrest, and the state has halted his pension payments. The Connecticut Attorney General’s office, led by William Tong, has vowed to pursue all legal options to hold Diamantis accountable, although extradition from Greece is complicated by the country's general refusal to extradite its own citizens. The case has sparked significant political controversy, with Republican gubernatorial nominee Ryan Fazio criticizing Governor Ned Lamont for promoting Diamantis to a position of authority. Governor Lamont has emphasized that his administration took appropriate actions by firing Diamantis and hiring a former U.S. attorney to investigate the matter. The situation has left many in Connecticut, including those involved in the school construction projects, feeling stressed and betrayed. The sentencing has been rescheduled for September 30, though it remains uncertain if Diamantis will appear. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact the Connecticut State Police or the Attorney General’s office. The focus remains on ensuring justice and safeguarding public funds as the legal proceedings continue.