Ep 5. Make Me Rich or Die/Kids for Cash

American Greed season 8 episode 5 is titled "Make Me Rich or Die/Kids for Cash" and explores two separate cases of financial fraud.

In the first segment, "Make Me Rich or Die," viewers are introduced to insurance agent and financial planner, Martin Frankel. Frankel lived a luxurious lifestyle, owning multiple mansions, expensive cars, and private jets. However, it was soon discovered that his wealth was built on a house of cards. Frankel had been using his clients' money to fund his lavish lifestyle, and the insurance company he worked for was left to foot the bill. The investigation into Frankel's fraud scheme was extensive and ultimately led to his indictment and imprisonment.

The second segment, "Kids for Cash," is a tragic story of greed and corruption in the juvenile justice system. Judges Mark Ciavarella and Michael Conahan were allegedly receiving kickbacks to send kids to a for-profit juvenile detention center. The judges were known for handing out harsh sentences, even to children who committed minor offenses. As it turned out, the judges were receiving kickbacks from the owners of the detention center. Many innocent children were caught up in this scheme, with devastating consequences for their families. The investigation into the "Kids for Cash" scandal was a long and drawn-out process, but the judges were eventually brought to justice.

Overall, American Greed season 8 episode 5 highlights the lengths to which people will go for money and the devastating consequences of financial fraud. Through interviews with law enforcement officials, victims, and experts in the field, viewers gain insight into the mindset of those who perpetrate financial crimes and the toll it takes on their victims. The episode is equal parts informative and disturbing, providing an eye-opening look into the dark world of financial fraud.