Cases by state
Ponzi schemes in Hawaii
7 cases announced 2009–2023, involving about $182.6M in reported investor money. Most common types: trading, forex & commodities, energy & alternative assets and investment funds & advisory. Listed by where the main defendant was based.
The largest by reported amount: Marcus Todd Brisco, Tin Quoc Tran, Francisco Story, Fredirick "Ted" Safranko, Michael Shannon Sims ($145M, 2023). Charges are allegations unless a court has entered a conviction or judgment.
Pitch phrases seen in these cases
- “between six and 8% return”
- “guaranteed returns of 25 percent to 50 percent”
- “returns of 10 to 15 percent in as little as two weeks”
- “safe and non-speculative options trading strategy”
Cases
| Date | Case | Location | Industry | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 1, 2023 | Morganwood Ltd. Stephen Keith Woodard Sr. |
Kihei, HI | Trading, forex & commodities | $6M |
| Feb 23, 2023 | Marcus Todd Brisco, Tin Quoc Tran, Francisco Story, Fredirick "Ted" Safranko, Michael Shannon Sims | Wailuku, HI | Trading, forex & commodities | $145M |
| May 24, 2013 | The Mortgage Store, The Parking Lot George Lindell, Holly Hoaeae |
HI | Investment funds & advisory | $8.6M |
| Mar 28, 2013 | J2 Marketing Solutions Jason Pascua |
Kaneohe, HI | Energy & alternative assets | $1.4M |
| Mar 12, 2013 | Heckman Multimedia Productions Peter Heckmann (aka Peter Heckman) |
Kapaa, HI | Energy & alternative assets | $1.2M |
| May 29, 2009 | Ruskjer & Associates David E. Ruskjer |
Koloa, HI | Trading, forex & commodities | $16M |
| Feb 19, 2009 | Billion Coupons Inc Marvin R. Cooper |
HI | Trading, forex & commodities | $4.4M |