FBI says alleged fraud scheme involving South Florida lawyer could exceed $1 billion

FBI: Alleged scheme by Fla. lawyer could top $1B

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Investigators say the alleged fraud scheme run by a prominent South Florida lawyer is likely to exceed $1 billion and involve thousands of investors.

Miami FBI chief John Gilles (GILL-eez) said Thursday morning that investigators want investors with attorney Scott Rothstein to come forward. Rothstein is suspected of misappropriating millions through a legal settlement investment scam.

No criminal charges have been filed yet, but in a civil complaint, prosecutors accused Rothstein of concocting a Ponzi scheme that lured millions from investors. Gilles said the investigation is likely to take weeks or longer.