Ep 9. The Fast and the Fraudulent

In season 13 episode 9 of American Greed, titled "The Fast and the Fraudulent," viewers are introduced to a high-stakes fraud scheme that runs rampant in the world of finance. The episode follows the history of a Chicago-based investment advisor who promises clients amazing returns on their investments. In reality, he is running a Ponzi scheme that bilks people out of their life savings.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the beautiful suburban town of Vernon Hills, where investors are drawn into the world of a charismatic financial advisor. We learn about his promises of returns that are too good to be true, and the zealous excitement that surrounds his investment opportunities. We see his company's sleek offices and impressive amenities, which add to the veneer of success that he projects to potential clients.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to several of the victims who were targeted by the advisor's fraudulent scheme. We hear from families who lost everything after investing their hard-earned savings with the advisor, and from individuals who were left destitute after he made off with their money. We also hear from whistleblowers who tried to bring attention to the fraudulent behavior, only to be dismissed or silenced by the advisor's supporters.

Throughout the episode, we see how this financial advisor used his charm and cunning to attract both high net worth investors and average middle-class people. He presented himself as a savvy investor, offering clients insider information and exclusive deals that they could not find elsewhere. He showed clients how successful he was by driving sports cars and wearing expensive suits, and he convinced them that they could share in his success if they invested with him. However, these promises were all part of an elaborate scheme to steal people's money and enrich himself.

As the episode draws to a close, viewers follow the aftermath of the fraudulent scheme. We see the advisor's arrest, his trial, and the punishment he receives for his actions. We also hear from victims who continue to struggle after having been defrauded, and from families who lost loved ones due to the stress and heartbreak of this fraudulent scheme.

In the end, "The Fast and the Fraudulent" is a cautionary tale about the danger of falling for financial scams. It highlights the importance of being skeptical, doing due diligence, and seeking out reputable financial advisors before entrusting them with your money. It also shines a light on the devastating consequences that can result from greed and deception, and the impact that fraud can have on individuals and families.