FBI Seeks Woman Accused of Defrauding Banc of California
The FBI is actively seeking information on Mary Carole McDonnell, a 73-year-old woman accused of defrauding the Banc of California of approximately $14.7 million. This alleged fraud took place nearly ten years ago and is part of a series of scams linked to McDonnell that began in July 2017 and allegedly continued until May 2018 across Orange and Los Angeles counties.
Accusations Against Mary Carole McDonnell
Federal officials reported that McDonnell is suspected of fraudulent activities aimed at several financial institutions, leading to estimated losses exceeding $15 million. Authorities revealed that McDonnell falsely claims to be an heir to the McDonnell Aircraft Family, suggesting the existence of an $80 million secret trust that she can access.
Legal Action and Profile
In December 2018, a federal arrest warrant was issued for McDonnell following charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigators provide a detailed description of McDonnell, stating that she:
- Is 5 feet, 7 inches tall
- Weighs around 145 pounds
- Has blond hair and blue eyes
- Features a scar on her right knee
She is known to operate under several aliases, including:
- Mary Carole Carroll
- Mary Carol McDonnell
- Mary Carroll McDonnell
- Mary C. Carroll
- Mary Carroll McDonald
Current Status and Background
Reports indicate that Mary Carole McDonnell is believed to be in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, but maintains connections to Los Angeles and Montgomery, Alabama. She was the chief executive officer of Bellum Entertainment Group, a television production and distribution company she founded in 2004. This company, previously known as LongNeedle Entertainment, dissolved in 2017 due to unresolved financial issues.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about McDonnell’s location to reach out to their local FBI office or the nearest American embassy or consulate. Furthermore, anonymous tips can be submitted online, assisting in the search for this accused fraudster.
