Winter Park, Florida Man Arrested for Investment Fraud
On September 3rd, 2025, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced the arrest of a Winter Park man on securities fraud charges. Jerald Benjamin Clawson has been charged with felony counts of organized scheme to defraud and the unlawful use of unregistered securities. Here, our Miami securities fraud attorney provides a more detailed overview of the case.
Securities Fraud Charges: Jerald Benjamin Clawson of Central Florida
A Central Florida man named Jerald Benjamin Clawson has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of felony investment fraud. FDLE’s investigation, which reportedly began in October of 2023, uncovered that Mr. Clawson solicited real estate investments from victims with promises of guaranteed returns that never materialized. The investments in questions were primarily cash loans and bridge loans. Investigators contend he pocketed several million dollars from these transactions for his personal gain. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office helped with the execution of an arrest warrant of Mr. Clawson on August 28. He is currently held at the Orange County Jail. As with all other defendants, Mr. Clawson is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Takeaway: Investigators believe that Jerald Benjamin Clawson took in more than $1 million from unsuspecting investors on the grounds that their money would be put into real estate projects. However, they believe that no legitimate investments were made at all.
Unregistered Securities Carry a Heightened Risk
Unregistered securities are particularly risky because they bypass the regulatory oversight designed to protect investors. In Florida, the sale of securities generally requires registration with the Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) or exemption under state or federal law. Registration helps to ensure both transparency and the proper oversight of an investment. When securities are unregistered, investors may be misled about the nature of the investment, its risks, or even its existence.
A Criminal Investment Fraud Charge is Often Not Sufficient (Investors Can File Claim)
While criminal charges against a fraudster may bring justice, they rarely provide full financial relief to victims. In Florida, prosecutors focus on punishment, not on compensating investors for their losses. As a result, even if the defendant is convicted of securities fraud, victims may still be left with significant financial damage. Investors should understand that they have the right to pursue separate civil remedies. By filing a claim, either individually or through a collective action, investors can seek restitution, damages, or other remedies to recover the funds that were unlawfully taken from them. A top-rated Miami, FL securities attorney can help you take civil legal action if you were the victim of investment fraud.
Call Our Miami, FL Securities Fraud Lawyer for a Confidential Consultation
At Carlson & Associates, P.A., our Miami securities fraud attorney has the knowledge, skills, and legal experience that you can trust. If you suffered losses due to a securities fraud scheme, we are more than ready to protect your rights and your interests. Do not go it alone. You need a strong attorney. With an office in Miami, our firm fights for investors throughout Florida.
Source:
fdle.state.fl.us/News/2025/September/FDLE-investment-fraud-investigation-leads-to-arres
