Maria Dulce Pino Dickerson, a California businesswoman, has been indicted on 32 federal counts, including wire fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering, for allegedly running a Ponzi scheme targeting members of the Filipino community. Federal prosecutors claim Dickerson convinced over 140 investors to pour more than $10 million into her business, Creative Legal Fundings, leading to losses exceeding $4 million.
Victims like Geraldine Bartleson invested substantial sums, with Bartleson alone putting $80,000 into Dickerson’s business. Bartleson’s attorney explained that Dickerson promised high monthly returns by allegedly funding attorneys’ lawsuits. However, only a portion of the funds were returned. Bartleson, along with others, believes Dickerson used her shared cultural background to gain investors’ trust.
According to the indictment, Dickerson’s scheme started in December 2020 and involved using investor money for luxury goods, high-end travel, and gambling. The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation issued a desist-and-refrain order, while multiple civil lawsuits have been filed against her.
In addition to Bartleson, Sarah Barcelona in Washington lost $100,000 and spoke about the severe impact on her personal life. Gemma and Ryan Smith, investors of $200,000, reported receiving only half their investment back. “I just feel relieved she’s off the streets,” Ryan Smith stated.
Dickerson’s attorney declined to comment on the case but previously argued that some investors had seen significant returns.
Currently held without bail, Dickerson is set to appear in court later this month as the investigation continues.
