State Banking

Orlando Man Sentenced for $1.6M Investment Fraud

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) announced the sentencing of Anthony Michael Hernandez to three years in prison and $1.8 million in restitution for a $1.6 million investment fraud scheme. Hernandez defrauded investors by falsely claiming his company, Oi2GO Media Technologies, Inc., was a major streaming service.

Man Arrested for $12 Million Advance Fee Loan Scam

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) partnered with the FBI to arrest Justin Scott Godur for an alleged $12 million advance fee loan scam. Godur is charged with wire fraud and money laundering for defrauding victims seeking large credit facilities.

Thomas Amendola Arrested for Investment Fraud

Thomas Amendola was arrested on felony charges for allegedly orchestrating an investment fraud scheme, soliciting $500,000 from investors. The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) led the investigation, which revealed investor funds were used for personal expenses.

Man Sentenced for Affinity Fraud, Ordered to Pay Restitution

Bonel Pierre was sentenced to four years in prison and ordered to pay over $250,000 in restitution for an affinity fraud scheme targeting the Haitian American community. The Florida Office of Financial Regulation partnered with local law enforcement on this criminal enforcement action.

Eric Levitt Sentenced for Promissory Note Scam

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) reports that Eric Levitt has been sentenced to five years in prison and 20 years of probation for his role in a fraudulent promissory note investment scheme. He was also ordered to pay over $570,000 in victim restitution.

Florida Financial Services License Renewal Open

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) has opened the license renewal period for various financial services businesses. Businesses and individuals must complete renewals by specific deadlines in December 2024 and January 2025 to maintain active license status.

Florida License Renewals Due December 2025

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) has issued an industry alert reminding businesses and individuals that license renewals are due by December 26, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Affected entities must renew through specific portals to maintain active license status.

OFR Proclamation Regarding North Florida Winter Storm

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) has issued a proclamation to state-chartered financial institutions and securities professionals concerning the North Florida winter storm. This notice provides guidance and potential relief measures in response to the severe weather event.

Investment Advisers: Continuing Education Deadline Reminder

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) is reminding investment advisers' associated persons of the December 26, 2024, deadline to complete continuing education requirements. Credits must be reported by this date to maintain active registration status.

Florida OFR Proclamation to Securities Professionals

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) issued a proclamation to securities professionals in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This notice provides guidance and potentially temporary relief measures for industry professionals operating in affected areas.