Pastor Indicted in $13 Million Fraud Scheme
A federal grand jury charged Cristian Popescu with wire fraud and money laundering regarding his company Followone, Inc.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Cristian Popescu, a local pastor, faces 15 federal counts for allegedly operating a $13 million fraud scheme through his company, Followone, Inc. Prosecutors claim he defrauded church members by using misleading marketing to secure investments for personal gain.
Why it matters
The indictment alleges that Popescu exploited his position at the Passion for Christ church to convince followers that their investments were divinely mandated. By allegedly funneling millions into personal accounts while the business faced eviction, the scheme caused significant financial harm to members of the community.
A federal grand jury has indicted Popescu on ten counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering. The Seattle court has arraigned the defendant and ordered his release on electronic monitoring pending trial.
The players
Cristian Popescu
He is the defendant in a federal fraud case and served as the pastor of the Passion for Christ church.
Followone, Inc.
This entity was a company used to allegedly solicit $13 million in fraudulent investments.
The details
Popescu allegedly utilized shell companies, fake websites, and high-end office spaces to project the appearance of a successful $1.4 billion enterprise. Evidence suggests he redirected $4.5 million of investor capital to family accounts and paid himself over $1 million in wages while the company accumulated an unpaid rent bill exceeding $350,000.
Timeline
Popescu began claiming ownership of Followone, Inc. in 2015.
He paid himself $1 million in wages between 2017 and 2024.
Popescu was arraigned in U.S. District Court on October 13, 2026.
The trial is scheduled to begin on December 21, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern set by previous affinity fraud investigations where a position of community trust was exploited to facilitate large-scale financial misappropriation. Such schemes frequently rely on the manipulation of personal relationships to bypass typical investment due diligence.
Residents and church members should remain cautious of investment opportunities promoted through religious or personal networks that promise high returns. Those who believe they have been impacted by this scheme may contact local authorities for guidance on the ongoing legal proceedings.
The takeaway
Investors should verify the legitimacy of any business entity regardless of the personal or religious background of its leadership. Always conduct independent financial due diligence before transferring funds to private companies or investment groups.
What happens next
Cristian Popescu is scheduled to appear in court for his trial beginning on December 21, 2026.
Further reading
For additional context on local enforcement efforts, visit the Financial Crime section.
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