Southern California

SoCal Man Gets 15 Years for House-Flipping Scam

The Costa Mesa businessman pleaded guilty to raising $17 million from investors, many of whom were elderly, by falsely promising returns of 8 to 10 percent.
SoCal Man Gets 15 Years for House-Flipping Scam
Homes stand on a hillside in Mission Viejo, Calif., on Oct. 22, 2018. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Jill McLaughlin
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A federal judge sentenced a Costa Mesa man to more than 15 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to running a fake real estate investment scheme, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Dec. 9.

Brett Barber, 45, a former co-owner of the Newport Beach-based BNZ Capital One LFC and National American Capital, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Otis Wright on Monday. Barber also faces a Jan. 9 restitution hearing in the case.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.