A Santa Barbara County man has been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison after being convicted of stealing millions from people who thought they were investing in an insurance company.
Darrell Aviss entered guilty pleas to 21 felony counts in federal court, ranging from wire fraud to tax evasion. Prosecutors say he stole $14 million in a Ponzi scheme. One victim lost close to $10 million.
They say during an eight-year-long period, he convinced his victims they would make huge returns on investing money in annuities issued by Swiss insurance companies. But, he actually used the money on things like cars, watches, and lavish vacations.
In addition to the jail sentence, the man was order to pay more than $18 million in restitution.
