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Investment Fraud Scam Unravels, Two Sentenced to Federal Prison
Orlando, Florida – In a shocking display of greed and deception, two Orlando residents have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a multi-million dollar investment scam. Leone Alfano La Cava, 59, and Viktoriya Johnson, 36, were found guilty of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, with La Cava receiving an 8-year and 1-month sentence and Johnson receiving a 3-year and 10-month sentence.
According to court documents, La Cava and Johnson orchestrated an international real estate investment scheme that defrauded at least 85 Italian investors out of over $5 million. La Cava solicited individuals in Italy to purchase real estate in Orange County, claiming it would generate guaranteed rental income. However, the properties either did not exist, were never owned by La Cava, Johnson, or Golden Investment, Inc., or had already been sold to another investor.
In a stunning display of audacity, Johnson and La Cava used falsified deeds and loan documents to convince investors that they were purchasing property owned by La Cava or Golden Investment, Inc. However, the reality was far from it. Johnson received over $1.3 million in investor funds, which she used to purchase four properties and two luxury vehicles for herself.
The scheme, which was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan W. Hill, Chauncey A. Bratt, and Roger B. Handberg, has left a trail of devastation in its wake. The victims, who invested their hard-earned savings in the scheme, have been left with nothing but a pile of worthless documents and a deep sense of betrayal.
La Cava and Johnson’s actions have not only ruined the lives of their victims but have also brought shame to the community. The sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge John Antoon, II, is a testament to the gravity of their crimes and serves as a warning to others who would seek to engage in similar schemes.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of due diligence when investing in any scheme, no matter how promising it may seem. It also highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies in bringing perpetrators to justice and protecting the public from financial predators.
As the dust settles on this case, one thing is clear: the victims will never be the same, and the perpetrators will have to face the consequences of their actions. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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