Investigation Update: Alan Lowenfells and David Lerner Associates Face Multiple Investor Complaints
Table of Contents
Haselkorn & Thibaut has opened an investigation into White Plains financial advisor Alan Lowenfells and his activities at David Lerner Associates. This investigation follows multiple investor complaints regarding allegedly unsuitable investment recommendations, particularly involving Energy 11 and Energy 12 private placements.
If you’ve invested with Alan Lowenfells or David Lerner Associates and experienced losses, especially in energy-related private placements, you may have options for recovery. Understanding your advisor’s history and recognizing potential red flags can help protect your financial future.
Who is Alan Lowenfells?
Alan Lowenfells (CRD# 4512765) is a financial advisor based in White Plains, New York, currently registered with David Lerner Associates. With 23 years of experience in the securities industry, he holds several professional licenses and operates across multiple states.
| Professional Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Years of Experience | 23 years (as of October 2025) |
| Current Firm | David Lerner Associates (since 2022) |
| Licenses Held | SIE, Series 63, Series 7 |
| States Registered | 14 states including NY, CA, FL |
Understanding the Complaint History
Alan Lowenfells’ BrokerCheck report reveals three investor complaints, raising concerns about his investment recommendations. These complaints follow a pattern that investors should understand:
Most Recent Complaint (September 2025)
- Status: Pending
- Alleged Damages: $165,000
- Allegations: Unsuitable recommendations and misrepresentation of Energy 11 and Energy 12 private placements
Previous Settlements
- 2022 Settlement: $25,000 – Related to Energy 11 private placement recommendations
- 2020 Settlement: $15,000 – Unsuitable recommendations and misrepresentation of material facts
While settlements don’t necessarily indicate guilt, multiple complaints with similar allegations create a concerning pattern that investors should carefully consider. Mr. Lowenfells has stated he “vehemently denies the allegations” in at least one disclosure.
Red Flags Investors Should Recognize
When evaluating Alan Lowenfells and David Lerner Associates, several red flags emerge that warrant careful consideration:
1. Pattern of Similar Complaints
Three separate investors have filed complaints with remarkably similar allegations. This consistency suggests potential systemic issues rather than isolated incidents. When multiple investors independently report similar experiences, it often indicates a pattern of problematic behavior.
2. Focus on Complex Private Placements
The Energy 11 and Energy 12 investments mentioned in multiple complaints are private placements – complex securities typically suitable only for sophisticated investors with high risk tolerance. These investments often carry:
- Limited liquidity
- Higher risk profiles
- Complex fee structures
- Limited regulatory oversight
3. Escalating Damage Claims
The progression from $15,000 to $165,000 in alleged damages suggests increasingly significant investor losses. This escalation may indicate either larger investment amounts being recommended or potentially deteriorating investment performance.
What This Means for Investors
If you’ve worked with Alan Lowenfells or invested through David Lerner Associates, now is the time to review your portfolio carefully. Consider these important steps:
Review Your Investments
- Examine any private placement investments in your portfolio
- Assess whether these investments align with your risk tolerance
- Review all documentation and disclosures provided
- Calculate your actual returns versus promised performance
Document Everything
Preserve all communications, account statements, and investment recommendations. This documentation becomes crucial if you need to pursue recovery options.
Understand Your Rights
FINRA rules require advisors to recommend only suitable investments based on your financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance. You have rights when these standards aren’t met.
Time Limits Matter
Investment fraud claims have strict time limitations. Waiting too long can eliminate your recovery options, regardless of the merits of your case. The statute of limitations varies by state and claim type, making prompt action essential.
Why Professional Evaluation Matters
Determining whether you have a valid claim requires professional analysis. Haselkorn & Thibaut offers free consultations to help investors understand their options. With over 50 years of experience and a 98% success rate, the firm has recovered millions for investors nationwide.
The firm operates on a “no recovery, no fee” basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they successfully recover your losses. This arrangement ensures that cost never prevents investors from seeking the help they deserve.
Take Action Today
If you’ve invested with Alan Lowenfells or David Lerner Associates and experienced losses, especially in Energy 11 or Energy 12 private placements, don’t wait to explore your options. The pattern of complaints and settlements suggests other investors may have similar experiences.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
Contact Haselkorn & Thibaut at 1-888-628-5590 to discuss your situation confidentially. Their experienced team can evaluate whether you have a valid claim and explain your recovery options. Visit investmentfraudlawyers.com to learn more about protecting your investment rights.
Remember, you’re not alone if you’ve suffered investment losses. Many investors facing similar situations have successfully recovered their funds through proper legal channels. The key is acting promptly while evidence remains available and legal options remain open.
