Colorado Man Charged with Defrauding Dozens, Including Pro Athletes in Scheme
A Denver man is in hot water after being charged with multiple counts of defrauding nearly 30 clients, including some professional athletes in Colorado. Ian Gregory Bell, 35, is facing 18 charges from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and additional charges from the Securities and Exchange Commission. The accusations include allegations that Bell misled investors about his trade performances and even went as far as sending fake screenshots of account performances. According to the SEC, Bell managed to raise $1.3 million from 29 investors in Colorado by promising significant returns with low risk.
It’s reported that several investors referred their family members and friends to Bell, who then allegedly squandered or used up almost all of their money within days or weeks. Shockingly, Bell supposedly used the proceeds of his scheme to pay off his girlfriend’s credit card bill and transfer money to his mother. Jason Burt, the regional director of the SEC’s Denver office, highlighted the importance of thoroughly researching any firm or individual before entrusting them with your hard-earned money, even if they come recommended by friends or family.
Bell has been indicted on multiple charges, including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering by a federal grand jury in Denver. While Bell’s attorney, Harvey Steinberg, has chosen not to comment on the situation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office declined an interview request citing Department of Justice Policy on open cases. If you have any information related to this case or a story idea for the Denver7 Investigates team, feel free to reach out using the contact information provided.
