Haselkorn & Thibaut is closely monitoring a significant investment fraud case that may impact investors across the financial landscape. Brett T. Graham has entered a guilty plea to wire fraud charges in Miami federal court related to the misappropriation of $8.4 million from an elderly family member, highlighting the ongoing risks investors face from financial misconduct.
Case Overview
Table of Contents
Brett T. Graham pleaded guilty to wire fraud in Miami federal court on May 16, 2025, and now faces up to 20 years in prison with sentencing scheduled for September 2025. This case represents one of the more substantial individual financial fraud matters in recent South Florida history.
The investigation revealed that Graham secured power of attorney over his mother’s finances in 2020, following which he systematically diverted her assets for personal use. The majority of the misappropriated funds came from the $9 million sale of his mother’s New York City townhouse in February 2019.
Court records indicate that Graham redirected these funds toward personal expenditures including:
- Luxury jewelry from Bulgari
- High-value artwork and collectibles
- First-class international travel accommodations
- Personal housing expenses at the prestigious One Thousand Museum overlooking Biscayne Bay
- Substantial relocation costs during the pandemic period
Federal authorities, through the FBI Miami Field Office, have conducted an extensive investigation resulting in the seizure of approximately $2 million worth of assets purchased with the misappropriated funds. This case demonstrates a particularly concerning pattern of financial exploitation, as Graham had previously faced disciplinary action from the Securities and Exchange Commission for misrepresentations in bond sales, resulting in financial penalties and a broker ban.
Pattern of Financial Misconduct
The Graham case exhibits several warning signs that investors should be vigilant about when entrusting their finances to advisors. According to court documents, Graham portrayed himself as a legitimate investment manager while systematically diverting funds meant for his mother’s care toward personal luxuries.
The breach of fiduciary duty in this case is particularly troubling given the vulnerable status of the victim and the familial relationship that was exploited. Graham’s prior SEC disciplinary history for misrepresentations in securities transactions would have served as a significant red flag had it been properly investigated before granting him control over substantial assets.
The financial impact on the victim has been severe, with millions in assets now significantly depleted at a time when medical and care expenses were increasing. This highlights the devastating consequences that can result from financial exploitation, particularly for elderly investors.
Legal Proceedings and Jurisdiction
The case is proceeding in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida under U.S. Circuit Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks. The prosecution has been led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida in coordination with the FBI Miami Field Office, which gathered substantial evidence leading to the federal charges.
Graham’s guilty plea was entered as part of an agreement that allowed for the dismissal of additional wire fraud and money laundering charges. The SEC has ordered Graham to pay an $8.4 million forfeiture judgment, though the recovery of all misappropriated funds remains uncertain.
The case falls under federal jurisdiction due to the nature of the wire fraud charges, which involve the electronic transfer of funds across state lines. This multi-jurisdictional element is common in complex financial fraud cases that Haselkorn & Thibaut regularly monitors and addresses on behalf of clients.
Protecting Your Investment Portfolio
The Graham case illustrates the critical importance of due diligence when selecting financial advisors and the necessity of ongoing oversight of investment accounts. Financial professionals who breach their fiduciary duty put their clients’ financial security at significant risk, often with devastating long-term consequences.
At Haselkorn & Thibaut, our investment fraud attorneys understand the serious impact these situations can have on investors and their families. We recommend implementing several protective measures as part of a comprehensive approach to safeguarding your investments:
- Verify credentials of all financial professionals through FINRA’s BrokerCheck and other regulatory databases before establishing any investment relationship
- Review account statements regularly for unauthorized transactions or unusual patterns of activity
- Maintain documentation of all communications with financial advisors, including recommendations and transaction authorizations
- Seek second opinions on major financial decisions, especially when significant assets are involved or when dealing with complex investment vehicles
- Request written explanations for any unusual account activity or unexpected changes in investment strategy
- Establish clear boundaries when granting powers of attorney or other forms of financial authority, including regular reporting requirements
- Consider a trusted contact person as an additional layer of protection, particularly for elderly investors
Red Flags for Potential Investment Fraud
Our experience at Haselkorn & Thibaut has identified several warning signs that investors should remain alert to when managing their portfolios:
- Promises of guaranteed returns or investment performance that significantly exceeds market benchmarks
- Pressure to make immediate decisions without adequate time for review and consideration
- Limited or restricted access to account information or difficulty obtaining documentation
- Unexplained transfers between accounts or to unfamiliar entities
- Complex investment structures that cannot be clearly explained or understood
- Prior regulatory actions against the advisor or their associated firms
- Lifestyle changes in your financial advisor that suggest sudden wealth acquisition
Legal Assistance for Investment Fraud Victims
If you believe you may have been affected by investment fraud or misrepresentation, Haselkorn & Thibaut’s experienced investment fraud attorneys can help assess your situation and explain your legal options. Our firm brings decades of combined experience in securities law and financial regulation to every case we handle.
Our attorneys specialize in representing investors in cases involving:
- Misappropriation of funds and asset diversion
- Breach of fiduciary duty by financial advisors
- Unsuitable investment recommendations based on client risk profiles
- Failure to disclose material information affecting investment decisions
- Unauthorized trading and account manipulation
- Elder financial abuse and exploitation
- Ponzi schemes and fraudulent investment opportunities
Recovery Options for Investors
When investment fraud occurs, multiple recovery pathways may be available depending on the specific circumstances. Haselkorn & Thibaut provides comprehensive representation across various forums:
FINRA Arbitration: Many investment disputes are resolved through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s arbitration process, which can provide a more efficient resolution than traditional court proceedings.
Securities Litigation: In certain cases, pursuing claims through federal or state courts may be the appropriate strategy to recover losses and hold wrongdoers accountable.
Regulatory Complaints: Working with regulatory authorities can sometimes facilitate recovery while helping to prevent future misconduct affecting other investors.
Negotiated Settlements: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can often secure favorable settlements without the need for lengthy proceedings.
The Haselkorn & Thibaut Advantage
Our firm distinguishes itself through:
- Specialized Focus: We concentrate exclusively on securities law and investment-related matters
- Former Industry Experience: Our team includes attorneys who have previously worked within the financial industry, providing valuable insider perspective
- Client-Centered Approach: We tailor our legal strategies to each client’s unique situation and objectives
- Proven Results: Our track record demonstrates consistent success in recovering funds for defrauded investors
- Transparent Communication: We maintain clear and regular communication throughout the legal process
Contact Haselkorn & Thibaut for a Free Consultation
Call Haselkorn & Thibaut at 1-888-885-7162 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation regarding potential investment fraud concerns. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping investors recover losses resulting from broker misconduct or securities fraud.
Don’t delay seeking legal advice if you suspect financial impropriety, as statutes of limitations may affect your ability to pursue claims. Our consultations are completely confidential and come with no upfront costs or obligations.
Sources
- U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Case No. 1:25-cr-20103
- Securities and Exchange Commission filings
- FBI Miami Field Office reports
- Multiple news outlets covering the case development
