Washington Pastor Charged in Alleged $13 Million Fraud Scheme Targeting Church Members

A Washington pastor has been charged in an alleged $13 million fraud scheme targeting church members. Cristian Popescu, pastor of Passion for Christ Church in Kirkland, is accused of using his position of spiritual leadership to deceive members of his congregation.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington, the alleged fraud scheme dates back to 2015. Popescu is accused of claiming to be the owner of a company called Followone, Inc., which he allegedly described as an online marketplace platform for buying and selling goods and services. Prosecutors allege that the platform was never operational, and Popescu used deceptive tactics to secure investments from over 30 individuals.

The charges include false claims that the company was on the verge of a public offering, had generated substantial revenue, and had attracted the involvement of leading software engineers. Popescu allegedly rented a large office space and claimed to employ 20 staff members, when in reality he employed only three. He also published misleading press releases about the company’s success.

Prosecutors allege that Popescu specifically targeted members of his own church, telling them that investing in Followone, Inc., would support the church’s mission. He allegedly required investors to sign nondisclosure agreements to maintain secrecy about the investments. Investors were also offered board positions if they committed at least $1 million.

Popescu is accused of pressuring investors to liquidate retirement funds and college savings for their children to contribute more to the scheme. When investors sought to withdraw their money, which Popescu had allegedly promised could be done at any time, he allegedly delayed the process. He is accused of using his spiritual authority to berate investors who sought to reclaim their funds, even labeling some as demonically possessed.

The allegations also include that Popescu transferred millions of dollars in invested funds into personal and family accounts. These financial activities are part of the broader scheme of alleged fraud and misrepresentation. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in both spiritual and financial leadership.

The situation underscores the biblical call to pursue justice and care for the vulnerable, as seen in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. It also reflects the responsibility of leaders to act with integrity and to protect those under their care, as emphasized in Proverbs 31:8-9.

Source: Read the original report