Alleged Fraudster Indicted In $3.3 Million Ticket Investment Scheme
Patrick Ayson, 32, was arrested this morning in San Francisco and is facing charges related to a $3.3 million investment fraud scheme. The indictment alleges that Ayson, formerly of San Francisco, induced at least 15 potential investors from California, New York, and Washington State to provide millions of dollars in funds on the promise of high profits.
According to the indictment, between June of 2015 and November of 2017, Ayson misrepresented that he would purchase tickets to sporting events, plays, and concerts at discounted prices and that he would then resell the tickets for a profit to investors. However, in reality, Ayson spent most of the funds on personal purchases, such as rent, and on extravagant expenditures such as gambling, travel, and shopping at Louis Vuitton.
The indictment charges Ayson with six counts of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison on each count in the indictment. In addition, the court also may order an additional term of supervised release, fines or other assessments, and restitution, if appropriate.
Ayson made his initial appearance before Sallie Kim, United States Magistrate Judge. His next appearance is scheduled for December 20, 2018, before Magistrate Judge Kim for issues related to pretrial detention or release.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Neal C. Hong is prosecuting this case with the assistance of Margoth Turcios. This prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The investigation into this case is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Defendant: Patrick Ayson
Criminal Charges: Six counts of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343
City and State: San Francisco, California
Date: June 2015 – November 2017 (crime date), December 20, 2018 (next appearance)
Sentence or Outcome: Ongoing prosecution
Dollar Amounts: $3.3 million (alleged defrauded amount)
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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