Lufkin Man Indicted for Wire Fraud, FBI Seeks Victims
Authorities are searching for potential victims of Matthew Jess Thrash, a Lufkin, Texas man facing indictments for wire fraud and money laundering. Thrash is accused of carrying out a series of fraudulent activities over a 12-year period, targeting individuals with promises of lucrative investment opportunities.
The Federal Court formally charged Thrash on Nov. 6, alleging that he posed as a successful businessman and sports agent from 2012 to 2024. By claiming ownership of a sports memorabilia store in the Mandalay Bay Casino in Las Vegas and a cannabis retailer, Thrash lured victims into investing in ventures that did not exist. Potential investors were deceived into wiring amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000.
Alongside these fraudulent activities, Thrash is also accused of committing PPP loan fraud. The FBI is now seeking additional individuals who may have been impacted by Thrash’s schemes, particularly those in Las Vegas, Nev., Shreveport, La., Lake Charles, La., Tampa, Fla., and across Texas.
Thrash’s schemes included a fake sports management company, a phony sports memorabilia store, and the fraudulent sale of stock in cannabis dispensaries. The FBI Lufkin Resident Agency is urging all victims to come forward and provide details of their involvement, including investment dates, amounts, and promised repayment plans. If you have information on the case or suspect you may have been a victim, contact your local FBI field office.
Investigations are ongoing, and federal authorities are committed to ensuring justice for all individuals affected by Matthew Jess Thrash’s extensive fraudulent activities.
