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International Business Times UK

World

Akshay Puri

Pastor Allegedly Told Church Members God Chose Them to Invest $13 Million in Fake Social Media Company

Social Media Fraud Money Laundering Washington D.C.

Prosecutors allege a Washington pastor delayed repayments, restricted investor communications and accused critics of being demonically possessed. (Credit: Passion for Christ / Facebook)

A Washington pastor allegedly used his religious authority to persuade more than 30 investors to put at least $13 million into a company prosecutors say had no revenue and could not complete online transactions. Cristian Popescu allegedly encouraged some investors to use retirement funds, borrow against their homes, and risk savings intended for their children's education.

Prosecutors also allege that more than $4.5 million in company funds went to accounts belonging to Popescu, his wife, and other family members.

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