FBI Seeking Victims of Alleged Sports Memorabilia and Cannabis Investment Fraud

• Posted: December 6, 2024, 8:01 pm
• in Sports Card News
• by bionic

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The FBI’s Lufkin Resident Agency in Texas is calling for potential victims of Matthew “Matt” Jess Thrash to come forward. Thrash, recently indicted on charges of federal wire fraud and money laundering in the Eastern District of Texas, is accused of operating several fraudulent investment schemes spanning over a decade.

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Thrash’s Alleged Schemes​

Between 2012 and 2024, Thrash allegedly ran multiple fraudulent operations, including:

• A fake sports management company.
• A fraudulent sports memorabilia store.
• Bogus stock sales related to cannabis dispensaries.

The FBI believes Thrash primarily targeted individuals in Las Vegas, NV, Shreveport, LA, Lake Charles, LA, Tampa, FL, and throughout Texas. He is accused of presenting himself as a successful entrepreneur offering lucrative investment opportunities, deceiving victims into investing substantial amounts of money.

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FBI Encourages Victims to Come Forward​

The FBI is urging individuals who suspect they were victimized by Thrash to contact law enforcement. A form has been made available for victims at https://www.fbi.gov.
Acting Special Agent in Charge P. J. O’Brien of the FBI Dallas Division issued a statement encouraging victims to report their experiences without fear of judgment:
“Mr. Thrash used and employed various fraudulent schemes to obtain money from others. A critical component of his schemes was presenting himself as a successful businessman with lucrative investment opportunities. Individuals should not be embarrassed if they invested in one of his schemes. We encourage you to come forward so that you can receive assistance and help us hold him accountable in a court of law.”

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Victim Assistance and Legal Rights​

As part of its legal mandate, the FBI is committed to identifying victims of federal crimes. Those who come forward may be eligible for:

• Victim services to assist with recovery.
• Restitution to compensate for financial losses.
• Rights under federal or state law, ensuring their voice is heard throughout the investigation and legal process.

The FBI also reminds the public that criminal charges against Thrash are currently allegations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

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How to Assist the Investigation​

If you or someone you know has information about Matthew Jess Thrash or believes they were victimized by his schemes, the FBI encourages you to:

• Complete the short form available at https://www.fbi.gov.
• Share the form or investigation details with others who may have been affected.

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A Call to Action​

The FBI’s investigation aims to uncover the full scope of Thrash’s alleged fraudulent activities and provide justice for those impacted. By coming forward, victims not only strengthen the case against Thrash but also take an important step toward reclaiming their financial and emotional well-being.
If you have relevant information or suspect you’ve been targeted by these schemes, don’t hesitate to contact the FBI. Together, we can ensure accountability and protect others from falling victim to similar fraud in the future.