Investment resentment: Local businessman accused of cheating people with loans, stopping payments

May 14, 2026 - 06:53

The ABC7 I-Team has launched an investigation into a local businessman who is accused of swindling people out of tens of thousands of dollars. The man, who operates under the alias "Brandon Mr. Finance," is facing allegations that he lured victims with promises of loans, only to stop making payments and leave them in financial ruin.

Sources say the scheme worked by targeting individuals who were desperate for quick cash or debt consolidation. Victims reported that after handing over fees or signing agreements, the payments they were supposed to receive never materialized. Instead, the businessman allegedly cut off all communication, leaving borrowers with empty promises and mounting losses.

One victim described the experience as a betrayal of trust, noting that the accused presented himself as a helpful financial expert. "He seemed legitimate, like he knew what he was doing," the victim said. "But once he had our money, he just disappeared."

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities looking into whether this is a pattern of fraud or a case of mismanagement. No charges have been filed yet, but the I-Team has uncovered multiple complaints from people who say they were left holding the bag. The businessman has not responded to requests for comment. For now, the community is left wondering how many more people may have been caught in this alleged scheme.