Haselkorn & Thibaut, P.A., operating as Investment Fraud Lawyers, has initiated a focused investigation into Charles Garrido Jr. (CRD# 1191231), a registered broker based in New York, NY, associated with A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners. As former Wall Street defense attorneys, our attorneys leverage their insider knowledge and 95+ years of combined securities law experience to aggressively advocate for investors. We understand the financial and emotional impact caused by investment professional misconduct, and our mission is to help you recover your investment losses with confidence and clarity.
Why We Are Investigating Charles Garrido Jr.
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Our firm has opened an investigation into Charles Garrido Jr. of A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners in light of recent disciplinary actions disclosed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). This scrutiny is propelled by FINRA’s December 17, 2025, report revealing regulatory violations that potentially place investors’ funds and interests at risk. We are committed to uncovering the full extent of client concerns connected to Garrido’s conduct and ensuring affected investors have a trusted advocate in their corner.
Overview of FINRA Sanctions and Key Findings
According to BrokerCheck records, Garrido was sanctioned for the following practices:
- Executing approximately 2,500 trades in over 200 customer accounts without written authorization from clients
- Failing to have customer accounts properly approved as discretionary by his firm
- Submitting inaccurate compliance certifications concerning discretionary trading
- Sending business-related text messages through personal channels, without firm retention or oversight
These actions reportedly resulted in books and records violations under federal securities laws, specifically Section 17(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 17a-4.
| Regulatory Finding | Details |
|---|---|
| Fine Imposed | $10,000 |
| Suspension Period | 3 months (Jan. 20, 2026-Apr. 19, 2026) in all capacities |
Garrido accepted these findings through an Acceptance, Waiver & Consent (AWC), without admitting or denying the allegations.
Why Unauthorized Discretion and Unmonitored Communication Matter
Unauthorized discretionary trading is a fundamental breach of trust and regulatory compliance. Under FINRA rules, brokers must obtain written authorization and firm approval before exercising discretion in client accounts. When brokers bypass these safeguards, investors face serious risks, including:
- Trades executed without your documented consent
- Exposure to investments outside your risk tolerance
- Significant losses with limited transparency or accountability
- Reduced supervision when brokers use personal devices or non-approved communication platforms
As former defense attorneys, we understand how these actions can jeopardize your portfolio and undermine your trust in the financial markets.
Charles Garrido Jr. Customer Complaints and Dispute History
| Year | Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Alleged lack of due diligence in recommending a debt security | $70,000 settlement |
| 2004 | Alleged breach of fiduciary duty and securities law violations | Over $777,000 arbitration award to customer |
| 2001 | Alleged unsuitable investments and failure to follow client instructions | $32,500 settlement |
| 1996 | Customer complaint involving annuity disclosures | Settled (amount undisclosed) |
Although Garrido may have denied some allegations, this pattern of customer complaints, arbitrations, and regulatory scrutiny raises substantial red flags for any investor considering or currently working with him or his firm.
Background and Employment History
- Years in the securities industry: Over 40
- Current firm: A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners (since 2018, registered in New York, NY)
- Prior affiliations: Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc.; McDonald Investments Inc.; Shearson Lehman Brothers Inc.
- Registered states: Illinois, Texas, New York, California, and others
How Investors Can Research Charles Garrido Jr.
Reviewing your advisor’s public record is vital to safeguarding your investment interests. Use the following steps:
- Visit BrokerCheck
- Enter “1191231” in the CRD# field
- Review the “Disclosure” section for customer complaints, arbitrations, or regulatory events
- Set reminders to periodically monitor for updates or changes in the advisor’s record
If you would like this information prepared for your records in a specific format, contact us for assistance.
Key Warning Signs for Investors to Watch
If you have worked with Charles Garrido Jr. or A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners, remain vigilant for the following warning signs:
- Trades executed without your written authorization
- Unusually frequent or excessive trading activity in your account
- Investment recommendations that appear misaligned with your risk profile or long-term goals
- Receiving business communications through personal text messages or messaging apps
Encountering any of these warning signs should prompt an immediate review and, in some cases, legal action to pursue recovery of your losses.
How Our Firm Can Help You Recover Losses
With a 98% success rate in hundreds of investor claims, over $520 million involved in securities matters, and Super Lawyers recognition, our attorneys use deep insider knowledge to identify and pursue claims that others may overlook. We handle all cases on a strict “No recovery, no fee” basis and have earned a Top 2% peer-reviewed (Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent) distinction along with consistent 5.0-star client reviews.
If you believe you have suffered losses due to unauthorized trading, negligent investment advice, or any form of broker misconduct involving Garrido or A.G.P. / Alliance Global Partners, let us stand as your advocate every step of the way.
Request a Free Consultation-Act Now to Protect Your Rights
The time to act is now. Call our attorneys for a complimentary assessment of your situation at 1-888-885-7162. Our investigation remains active, and we are available to discuss your experience, review your accounts, and outline your best options for recovering funds lost to broker misconduct.
Your path to recovery starts with a single conversation. Reach out today-our attorneys are ready to fight for your rights as an investor.
