A key figure in the Forcount crypto Ponzi scheme, which targeted Spanish-speaking investors globally and amassed $8.4 million, has admitted guilt in his involvement, as per federal prosecutors’ announcement on Wednesday.
Juan Tacuri’s Plea
Juan Tacuri, aged 46 and residing in Florida, has confessed to conspiring to commit wire fraud in the Southern District of New York (SDNY), facing a potential 20-year prison sentence. Tacuri has also pledged to return nearly $4 million to victims and surrender real estate bought with victim funds.
The Scheme’s Operation
Tacuri and his accomplices enticed investors with promises of doubling their investments within six months in Forcount, purportedly a crypto mining and trading company. However, prosecutors allege Forcount never engaged in mining or trading; instead, Tacuri and his associates utilized new investors’ funds to reimburse earlier ones and enrich themselves, indulging in luxury items and properties.
Tactics Used by Tacuri
Prosecutors reveal Tacuri hosted lavish expos across the U.S., aimed at attracting new investors. He lured them with the prospect of financial freedom and flaunted his earnings, even donning designer clothing at these events.
Legal Action and Further Arrests
In 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sued Tacuri and three others for violating the Securities Act. Additionally, two other Forcount promoters were arrested last year on fraud charges.
Upcoming Sentencing
Tacuri awaits sentencing on Sept. 24 in New York, with District Judge Analisa Torres presiding, who also oversees the SEC’s case against Ripple.
