Georgia Department of Banking and Finance Final Rules Adopted

The Georgia Department of Banking and Finance has adopted final rules that will become effective on July 7, 2025. These rules were filed with the Secretary of State on June 18, 2025. The specific content of the rules can be accessed on the Department's website.

Georgia DBF Proposed Banking Regulations

The Georgia Department of Banking and Finance has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking, inviting public comment on new banking regulations. The comment period is open from May 15, 2025, to June 16, 2025.

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.

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.

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 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.