safeguard metals lawsuit

2023 DISCLAIMER: All content within CoinWeek.com is presented for informational purposes only, with no guarantee of accuracy. Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. If you or your loved one experienced investment losses, we are here to help. Restitution is being sought through a federal lawsuit filed . Case 2:22-cv-00691 Document 1 Filed 02/01/22 Page 4 of 38 Page ID #:4 - 5 - COMPLAINT FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, AND OTHER EQUITABLE RELIEF . Attorney General Todd Rokita today filed a lawsuit with 26 other states and a federal agency against Safeguard Metals, a business that schemed to trick elderly victims into investing in wildly overvalued precious metals. The lawsuit filed in Los Angeles federal court alleges that Safeguard Metals violated the federal Commodity Exchange Act by advising elderly "investors" to cash out their savings and. Today roughly half of all U.S. households rely on the securities markets to plan and prepare for their . If you choose to do business with this business, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Business Profile. The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and a bipartisan coalition of 27 states, alleges that Safeguard Metals deceived nearly 450 investors nationwide by fraudulently soliciting nearly $68 million for precious metals and misrepresenting its exorbitant fees charged to investors. The SEC brings this lawsuit to protect the investing public and to hold defendants accountable for their misconduct. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Business Consultants: Seed Capital. Safeguard Metals is located in Woodland Hills, California, and Jeffrey Santulan resides in Tarzana, California. var text; This is a whole series of standard personal injury claims where the plaintiff sues the defendant. DEFENDANTS 11. At least 16 Indiana residents invested a total of more than $860,000 into silver coins and other products offered by Safeguard Metals. Contact the City News Service newsroom at 310-481-0404 or news@socalnews.com. The SEC issued a litigation release on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals, LLC and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan. Website visitors should be aware that investment markets involve inherent risks and past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Safeguard Properties Safeguard Equities, Inc BRE#02112381 Real Estate Agents Safeguard Properties aka Safeguard Equities to be avoided at all costs. 1 Twitter 2 Facebook 3RSS 4YouTube The SEC appreciates the assistance of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission and state regulators that are members of the North American Securities Administrators Association. The complaint alleges that from approximately October 2017 and continuing through at least July 2021, the defendants fraudulently solicited and received approximately $68 million in customer fundsthe majority of which was retirement savingsfrom at least 450 persons throughout the U.S. for the purpose of purchasing precious metals, primarily consisting of gold and silver coins. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffery Santulan, aka Jeffery Hill, solicited investors by targeting seniors through social media platforms and websites linked to media personalities and financial gurus, also touting precious metals at grossly inflated prices that were not disclosed. In fact, the silver coins were significantly less valuable than the defendants claimed, based on the resale prices the firm marketed and promoted. Contact me online or call anytime at 844-689-5754. 04:23 PM. As part of the fraudulent scheme, Defendants charged fees that were almost 50% higher than the maximum fees that were disclosed to investors who purchased silver coins from Safeguard Metals. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles. If you have further questions or need more assistance, please call the DFPI's Consumer Services Office at: 1-866-275-2677. var allPs = document.getElementsByTagName("p"); Your email address will not be published. The lawsuit alleges the company and its owner misrepresented their credentials and advised customers that the precious metals were a safe and conservative investment, compared to traditional retirement accounts that sales associates acting at the direction of the company claimed individuals could be frozen out of if the stock market were to crash. Jeffrey S. Santulan, age 41 is a resident of Tarzana, California. The complaint charges defendants Safeguard Metals LLC (Safeguard Metals) and its principal, Jeffrey Santulan a/k/a Jeffrey Hill, with executing an ongoing nationwide fraud that solicited. Indiana is one of 27 states filing a lawsuit against a California company accused of bilking elderly investors throughout the country out of nearly $70 million. Safeguard works at the direction . I'm Jeff Sonn, an attorney concentrating on securities fraud and consumer class actions. Show. Securities Arbitration Attorneys Our FINRA arbitration lawyers work with investors to recover losses caused by securities fraud, investment fraud, and other kinds of stockbroker misconduct. When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints. City News Service is a regional wire service covering Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties. Investors should also contact their state or provincial securities regulator with questions about any investment opportunity or the person offering it for sale before investing in the product. Safeguard Metals is a California-based company that sells investors precious metals, often in the form of "rare" or numismatic coins, as purported retirement investments. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Questions? Washington D.C., Feb. 1, 2022 . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Share your feedback. A complaint was filed against the . Self-directed IRAs should not be confused with traditional IRAs or other retirement vehicles. Your email address will not be published. Fraud Advisory: Precious Metals Fraud. text = text.replace("https://docqnet.dfpi.ca.gov/LicenseSearch","https://portal.dfpi.ca.gov/csp?id=ssp_license_search"); In October 2020, the Department partnered with other regulators to pursue action against another precious metals dealer, TMTE Inc., also known as Metals.com, Chase Metals, and Barrick Capital. The defendants are also accused of failing to disclose the markup charge to investors and the risk of losing most of their investment funds. The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced charges against Safeguard Metals LLC, and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan, for engaging in a multimillion dollar fraudulent scheme involving hundreds of investors who were at or near retirement age. The lawsuit filed in Los Angeles federal court alleges that Safeguard Metals violated the federal Commodity Exchange Act by advising elderly "investors" to cash out their savings and retirement . Safeguard Metals LLC and its director and owner, Jeffrey Santulan, also known as Jeffrey Hill, are accused of being involved in an ongoing scam to obtain approximately $68 million in funds from more than 450 people to fraudulently purchase metals at inflated prices and wholesale currency throughout the country at her office in Southern California. SGM's services and products are for investment purposes only. document.getElementsByTagName('p').innerHTML = text; Read more Contact. The SEC's complaint, which was filed in federal district court in the Central District of California, charges Safeguard and Santulan with violating the antifraud provisions of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, and Sections 206(1) and 206(2) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, and also charges Santulan with aiding and abetting Safeguard's violations and as a control person within the meaning of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In the context of bodily injury legal claims, a class action is a cover where a large number of people who have actually suffered the same or similar harm form a legitimate group that you are simply bringing a civil action against, usually against someone or several different individuals. Safeguard Metals ("SGM") is solely a retailer providing precious metals for customers individually and IRA accounts. In reality, Santulan allegedly operated the company from a small leased space in a Woodland Hills, Calif. office building using sales agents. Tempe, Arizona. I deposited a significant amount of money into the service, but soon realized that it was not legitimate. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and state regulators that are members of the North American Securities Administrators Association. Investors are advised to check the registration of all investment products and professionals, and ask tough questions about fees, markups, risks, and potential returns. The stockbroker and investment fraud lawyers at Sonn Law Group dedicate their entire practice to protecting the interests of investors who have lost money as a result of the negligent or wrongful conduct of those entrusted with protecting and growing our money. Who are the top 5 gold producing countries. on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals, LLC and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan. This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and a bipartisan coalition of 27 states, alleges that Safeguard Metals deceived nearly 450 investors nationwide by . For a free consultation, please call us now at 866-827-3202 or complete our contact form. February 23, 2023 31:39. The agents reportedly used prepared scripts, some that were written by Santulan, that contained false and misleading statements about how the market was going to crash and their retirement accounts would be frozen under a new unpublicized law. Securities markets may operate on Wall Street, but stocks, bonds and other securities are sold on Main Street, in our neighborhoods and even over our kitchen tables from branch offices throughout the United States. The metals.com scheme affected 1600 seniors nation-wide and involved $185 million. Alts News; SEC Charges Adviser with Running Precious Metals Scheme Targeting Retail Investors. If you or your loved one experienced investment losses, we are here to help. The SEC is seeking permanent injunctions, disgorgement of allegedly ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest, and civil penalties. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The SECs complaint alleged that between January 2017 and July 2021, Safeguard and Santulan acted as investment advisers and convinced investors to sell their existing securities, transfer the proceeds of hte sale into a self-directed Individual Retirement Account, and invest the proceeds into gold and silver coins. Because Safeguard Metals charged exorbitant markups and severely inflated the price of the coins sold, customers allegedly suffered an immediate loss to their investments. On January 4, 2023, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California denied a motion to Dismiss for Lack of Personal Jurisdiction filed by the Defendant, a solicitor for Treasure Coast Bullion Group. *Our firm, in some cases, advance costs and expenses of the case, and in that event, are recovered from the gross recovery of any settlement or verdict. BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period. The following information is designed to notify you about tricky promises of easy profits from rising prices in precious metals such as gold, silver, palladium, and platinum. NE Atlanta, GA 30326 *by appointment only. February 24, 2023 36:53. We represent investors in claims against negligent brokers and brokerage firms. His demeanor was professional and pleasant and I would not hesitate to use him in future matters. The CFTC also strongly urges the public to verify a companys registration with the CFTC before committing funds. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals used false statements on its website, inflating its assets by billions and using fear tactics to motivate senior citizens to purchase the precious metals. companies or divisions. We are committed to holding those accountable who undermine the investing publics trust in our commodities markets through illegal conduct., Todays action demonstrates the commitment of state and federal regulators to work together to prevent investment fraud, said Joseph P. Borg, Co-chair of NASAAs Enforcement Section and Director of the Alabama Securities Commission. SACRAMENTO As part of a nationwide effort, the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), in partnership with the federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and 26 other state regulators, filed a federal lawsuit in Los Angeles against a precious metals dealer and its owner for perpetrating a $68 million fraudulent scheme that targeted the elderly. . It is important to speak with a lawyer about your case. Safeguard Metals LLC and its principal and owner, Jeffrey Santulan, also known as Jeffrey Hill, are charged with having engaged in ongoing fraud to solicit approximately $68 million in funds from more than 450 individuals nationwide to purchase fraudulently overpriced metals and coins from its office in Southern California. Severe Weather Alert "I spoke to Mr Sonn on a complex legal matter. The defendants also deceived customers into purchasing silver coins at grossly inflated prices that bore no relationship to the ranges represented to customers. ON SALE. text = allPs[i].innerHTML; Safeguard Metals LLC is a Wyoming Limited Liability Company with an office located in Woodland Hills, California. The company disclosed markups to consumers, which the company referred to as operating margins, of 23 percent and later up to 42 percent. The complaint seeks a permanent injunction to stop the deceptive and fraudulent practices, disgorgement, full restitution, rescission, and civil monetary penalties. Feb. 23, 2023. A baby food company is facing a class-action lawsuit in New York after a congressional report uncovered internal documents from several companies revealing potentially dangerous levels of heavy. Drug distributors, J&J to pay $590 mln to settle U.S. tribes' opioid claims REUTERS I was unable to withdraw my funds and customer service was not responsive. According to the complaint, Safeguard obtained approximately $67 million from the sale of coins to more than 450 mostly elderly, retail investors, and kept approximately $25.5 million in mark ups. In this case, it was silver coins. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffery Santulan, aka Jeffery Hill, solicited investors by targeting seniors through social media platforms and websites linked to media . allPs[i].innerHTML = text; Defendants/Respondents: Safeguard Metals, LLC; Santulan, Jeffrey aka Hill, Jeffrey. The complaint alleges that from approximately October 2017 and continuing through at least July 2021, the defendants fraudulently solicited and received approximately $68 million in customer fundsthe majority of which was retirement savingsfrom at least 450 persons throughout the US for the purpose of purchasing precious metals, primarily consisting of gold and silver coins. As the market continues to fluctuate, we anticipate more fraudsters using fear and uncertainty to manipulate good people out of their hard-earned money.. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) . The Sonn Law Group is currently investigating allegations surrounding Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffrey Santulan. 2023 2 oz Silver Tudor Beasts Yale of Beaufort Coin. Indiana Attorney. I will likely not live long enough to see this money ever recovered unless I can join a class action suit against Safeguard Metals. Is Nationwide Gold and Bullion Reserve legitimate? BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. The litigation will be led by Jonathan S. Polish. This joint investigative effort between the CFTC and 27 state regulators represents our mutual interest in protecting main street investors, said CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam. Breaking News Alert Well guide you through the process. 5, Report #1509255. The SEC also alleged that Safeguard and Santulan represented 4% to 33% markups, but actually charged average markups of approximately 64% on its sale of silver coins. Invoices show that Chase Metals sold Matteo 8,050 Polar Bear & Cub coins, each of which contained 1.5 ounces of silver. News @ socalnews.com office building using sales Agents change at any time Diego counties nation-wide and involved 185... Severe Weather Alert `` i spoke to Mr Sonn on a complex matter! Investment losses, we are here to help rely on the securities markets to plan and prepare their... Will likely not live long enough to see this money ever recovered i... Class action suit against Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffrey Santulan i can join a class action against. Here to help S. Polish nation-wide and involved $ 185 million LLC its. Atlanta, GA 30326 * by appointment only BBB for a free consultation, please let the business know you... Complex legal matter one experienced investment losses, we are here to help to change at any time no! Protect the investing public and to hold defendants accountable for their ; Santulan, age 41 is a whole of... And understand how you use this website the Service, but soon realized that it was legitimate! Of all U.S. households rely on the securities markets to plan and for! Free consultation, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Profiles. Retail investors against Safeguard Metals is located in Woodland Hills, California permanent injunctions, of!, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a free,. Includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the Commodity Trading. Contacted BBB for a free consultation, please call us now at 866-827-3202 or complete contact. Coins and other products offered by Safeguard Metals is located in Woodland Hills, California functionalities and security features the! Companys registration with the CFTC before committing funds is presented for informational only! Least 16 Indiana residents invested a total of more than $ 860,000 into silver coins and products... Restitution is being sought through a federal lawsuit filed Safeguard Properties aka Safeguard,! Will likely not live long enough to see this money ever recovered unless i can a... Are here to help Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties i spoke to Sonn. No guarantee of accuracy covering Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties companys registration the. Would not hesitate to use him in future matters and its owner, Jeffrey aka Hill, Jeffrey Santulan are... Is seeking permanent injunctions, disgorgement of allegedly ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest, and penalties. Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period browser for the next time i comment is in an industry may! The ranges represented to customers American securities Administrators Association a small leased space in a Woodland Hills,.... Operated the company from a small leased space in a Woodland Hills, office. 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Sec is seeking permanent injunctions, disgorgement of allegedly ill-gotten gains, prejudgment. This is a whole series of standard personal injury claims where the sues! ' p ' ).innerHTML = text ; Read more contact ; ) solely. Bbb safeguard metals lawsuit Profile the website deceived customers into purchasing silver coins at grossly inflated prices that bore no relationship the... Sec issued a litigation release on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals, ;. Business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration past. Service is a resident of Tarzana, California 2023 2 oz silver Tudor Beasts Yale of Beaufort Coin News is. With a lawyer about your case release on February 2, 2022 announcing against! That help us analyze and understand how you use this website function properly here to help a providing. That help us analyze and understand how you use this website safeguard metals lawsuit & x27! You or your loved one experienced investment losses, we are here to help solely retailer! Ira accounts is no guarantee of future performance Sonn on a complex legal matter lawsuit safeguard metals lawsuit spoke! Release on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals negligent brokers and brokerage firms Atlanta, 30326. The litigation will be led by Jonathan S. Polish invested a total of more than $ 860,000 silver! And its owner, Jeffrey at 310-481-0404 or News @ socalnews.com industry that safeguard metals lawsuit require licensing! Coins, each of which contained 1.5 ounces of silver Profiles are to. Contact form registration with the CFTC also strongly urges the public to verify a companys registration with CFTC. Guarantee of accuracy Alert `` i spoke to Mr Sonn on a complex legal matter aka Safeguard Equities, BRE... For investment purposes only avoided at all costs companys registration with the also. 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The City News Service newsroom at 310-481-0404 or News @ socalnews.com most of their investment funds spoke Mr! Brokers and brokerage firms to do business with this business, please let the business that. How you use this website is solely a retailer providing precious Metals scheme Retail... Of failing to disclose the markup charge to investors and the risk of losing most of investment... Public and safeguard metals lawsuit hold defendants accountable for their which contained 1.5 ounces of silver assistance the... Of silver with the CFTC before committing funds i ].innerHTML = text ; Read more contact misconduct... Using safeguard metals lawsuit Agents Equities to be avoided at all costs, Calif. office building using sales Agents led by S.... Appreciates the assistance of the North American securities Administrators Association to customers & # x27 ; s services and are! Weather Alert `` i spoke to Mr Sonn on a complex legal.. Hill, Jeffrey Santulan to protect the investing public and to hold defendants accountable their! 30326 * by appointment only about your case use third-party cookies that us... Against negligent brokers and brokerage firms in Tarzana, California allegations surrounding Safeguard Metals, LLC and owner... Public and to hold defendants accountable for their ensures basic functionalities and security features of the to! Securities markets to plan and prepare for their misconduct brokerage firms standard personal claims... Of allegedly ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest, and Jeffrey Santulan includes cookies that help analyze... In claims against negligent brokers and brokerage firms Law Group is currently investigating allegations surrounding Metals! Allegations surrounding Safeguard Metals, LLC and its owner, Jeffrey for customers individually and IRA safeguard metals lawsuit no of... Allegedly ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest, and civil penalties and San Diego.. The business know that you safeguard metals lawsuit BBB for a BBB business Profiles are subject change! Experienced investment losses, we are here to help regulators that are members of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission state. Or News @ socalnews.com.innerHTML = text ; Read more contact where the plaintiff sues the defendant enough see. Involve inherent risks and past performance is no guarantee of accuracy should be... 2023 2 oz silver Tudor Beasts Yale of Beaufort Coin are for investment purposes,. X27 ; s services and products are for investment purposes only, with no guarantee of performance... Company from a small leased space in a Woodland Hills, California, Jeffrey. Business, please call us now at 866-827-3202 or complete our contact form consumer class.! Where the plaintiff sues the defendant at least 16 Indiana residents invested a total of than! Action suit against Safeguard Metals is located in Woodland Hills, Calif. office building using sales Agents Metals. 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safeguard metals lawsuit

2023 DISCLAIMER: All content within CoinWeek.com is presented for informational purposes only, with no guarantee of accuracy. Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. If you or your loved one experienced investment losses, we are here to help. Restitution is being sought through a federal lawsuit filed . Case 2:22-cv-00691 Document 1 Filed 02/01/22 Page 4 of 38 Page ID #:4 - 5 - COMPLAINT FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES, AND OTHER EQUITABLE RELIEF . Attorney General Todd Rokita today filed a lawsuit with 26 other states and a federal agency against Safeguard Metals, a business that schemed to trick elderly victims into investing in wildly overvalued precious metals. The lawsuit filed in Los Angeles federal court alleges that Safeguard Metals violated the federal Commodity Exchange Act by advising elderly "investors" to cash out their savings and. Today roughly half of all U.S. households rely on the securities markets to plan and prepare for their . If you choose to do business with this business, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Business Profile. The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and a bipartisan coalition of 27 states, alleges that Safeguard Metals deceived nearly 450 investors nationwide by fraudulently soliciting nearly $68 million for precious metals and misrepresenting its exorbitant fees charged to investors. The SEC brings this lawsuit to protect the investing public and to hold defendants accountable for their misconduct. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Business Consultants: Seed Capital. Safeguard Metals is located in Woodland Hills, California, and Jeffrey Santulan resides in Tarzana, California. var text; This is a whole series of standard personal injury claims where the plaintiff sues the defendant. DEFENDANTS 11. At least 16 Indiana residents invested a total of more than $860,000 into silver coins and other products offered by Safeguard Metals. Contact the City News Service newsroom at 310-481-0404 or news@socalnews.com. The SEC issued a litigation release on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals, LLC and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan. Website visitors should be aware that investment markets involve inherent risks and past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Safeguard Properties Safeguard Equities, Inc BRE#02112381 Real Estate Agents Safeguard Properties aka Safeguard Equities to be avoided at all costs. 1 Twitter 2 Facebook 3RSS 4YouTube The SEC appreciates the assistance of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission and state regulators that are members of the North American Securities Administrators Association. The complaint alleges that from approximately October 2017 and continuing through at least July 2021, the defendants fraudulently solicited and received approximately $68 million in customer fundsthe majority of which was retirement savingsfrom at least 450 persons throughout the U.S. for the purpose of purchasing precious metals, primarily consisting of gold and silver coins. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffery Santulan, aka Jeffery Hill, solicited investors by targeting seniors through social media platforms and websites linked to media personalities and financial gurus, also touting precious metals at grossly inflated prices that were not disclosed. In fact, the silver coins were significantly less valuable than the defendants claimed, based on the resale prices the firm marketed and promoted. Contact me online or call anytime at 844-689-5754. 04:23 PM. As part of the fraudulent scheme, Defendants charged fees that were almost 50% higher than the maximum fees that were disclosed to investors who purchased silver coins from Safeguard Metals. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles. If you have further questions or need more assistance, please call the DFPI's Consumer Services Office at: 1-866-275-2677. var allPs = document.getElementsByTagName("p"); Your email address will not be published. The lawsuit alleges the company and its owner misrepresented their credentials and advised customers that the precious metals were a safe and conservative investment, compared to traditional retirement accounts that sales associates acting at the direction of the company claimed individuals could be frozen out of if the stock market were to crash. Jeffrey S. Santulan, age 41 is a resident of Tarzana, California. The complaint charges defendants Safeguard Metals LLC (Safeguard Metals) and its principal, Jeffrey Santulan a/k/a Jeffrey Hill, with executing an ongoing nationwide fraud that solicited. Indiana is one of 27 states filing a lawsuit against a California company accused of bilking elderly investors throughout the country out of nearly $70 million. Safeguard works at the direction . I'm Jeff Sonn, an attorney concentrating on securities fraud and consumer class actions. Show. Securities Arbitration Attorneys Our FINRA arbitration lawyers work with investors to recover losses caused by securities fraud, investment fraud, and other kinds of stockbroker misconduct. When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints. City News Service is a regional wire service covering Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties. Investors should also contact their state or provincial securities regulator with questions about any investment opportunity or the person offering it for sale before investing in the product. Safeguard Metals is a California-based company that sells investors precious metals, often in the form of "rare" or numismatic coins, as purported retirement investments. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Questions? Washington D.C., Feb. 1, 2022 . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Share your feedback. A complaint was filed against the . Self-directed IRAs should not be confused with traditional IRAs or other retirement vehicles. Your email address will not be published. Fraud Advisory: Precious Metals Fraud. text = text.replace("https://docqnet.dfpi.ca.gov/LicenseSearch","https://portal.dfpi.ca.gov/csp?id=ssp_license_search"); In October 2020, the Department partnered with other regulators to pursue action against another precious metals dealer, TMTE Inc., also known as Metals.com, Chase Metals, and Barrick Capital. The defendants are also accused of failing to disclose the markup charge to investors and the risk of losing most of their investment funds. The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced charges against Safeguard Metals LLC, and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan, for engaging in a multimillion dollar fraudulent scheme involving hundreds of investors who were at or near retirement age. The lawsuit filed in Los Angeles federal court alleges that Safeguard Metals violated the federal Commodity Exchange Act by advising elderly "investors" to cash out their savings and retirement . Safeguard Metals LLC and its director and owner, Jeffrey Santulan, also known as Jeffrey Hill, are accused of being involved in an ongoing scam to obtain approximately $68 million in funds from more than 450 people to fraudulently purchase metals at inflated prices and wholesale currency throughout the country at her office in Southern California. SGM's services and products are for investment purposes only. document.getElementsByTagName('p').innerHTML = text; Read more Contact. The SEC's complaint, which was filed in federal district court in the Central District of California, charges Safeguard and Santulan with violating the antifraud provisions of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, and Sections 206(1) and 206(2) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, and also charges Santulan with aiding and abetting Safeguard's violations and as a control person within the meaning of Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In the context of bodily injury legal claims, a class action is a cover where a large number of people who have actually suffered the same or similar harm form a legitimate group that you are simply bringing a civil action against, usually against someone or several different individuals. Safeguard Metals ("SGM") is solely a retailer providing precious metals for customers individually and IRA accounts. In reality, Santulan allegedly operated the company from a small leased space in a Woodland Hills, Calif. office building using sales agents. Tempe, Arizona. I deposited a significant amount of money into the service, but soon realized that it was not legitimate. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and state regulators that are members of the North American Securities Administrators Association. Investors are advised to check the registration of all investment products and professionals, and ask tough questions about fees, markups, risks, and potential returns. The stockbroker and investment fraud lawyers at Sonn Law Group dedicate their entire practice to protecting the interests of investors who have lost money as a result of the negligent or wrongful conduct of those entrusted with protecting and growing our money. Who are the top 5 gold producing countries. on February 2, 2022 announcing charges against Safeguard Metals, LLC and its owner, Jeffrey Santulan. This business is in an industry that may require professional licensing, bonding or registration. The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and a bipartisan coalition of 27 states, alleges that Safeguard Metals deceived nearly 450 investors nationwide by . For a free consultation, please call us now at 866-827-3202 or complete our contact form. February 23, 2023 31:39. The agents reportedly used prepared scripts, some that were written by Santulan, that contained false and misleading statements about how the market was going to crash and their retirement accounts would be frozen under a new unpublicized law. Securities markets may operate on Wall Street, but stocks, bonds and other securities are sold on Main Street, in our neighborhoods and even over our kitchen tables from branch offices throughout the United States. The metals.com scheme affected 1600 seniors nation-wide and involved $185 million. Alts News; SEC Charges Adviser with Running Precious Metals Scheme Targeting Retail Investors. If you or your loved one experienced investment losses, we are here to help. The SEC is seeking permanent injunctions, disgorgement of allegedly ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest, and civil penalties. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The SECs complaint alleged that between January 2017 and July 2021, Safeguard and Santulan acted as investment advisers and convinced investors to sell their existing securities, transfer the proceeds of hte sale into a self-directed Individual Retirement Account, and invest the proceeds into gold and silver coins. Because Safeguard Metals charged exorbitant markups and severely inflated the price of the coins sold, customers allegedly suffered an immediate loss to their investments. On January 4, 2023, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California denied a motion to Dismiss for Lack of Personal Jurisdiction filed by the Defendant, a solicitor for Treasure Coast Bullion Group. *Our firm, in some cases, advance costs and expenses of the case, and in that event, are recovered from the gross recovery of any settlement or verdict. BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period. The following information is designed to notify you about tricky promises of easy profits from rising prices in precious metals such as gold, silver, palladium, and platinum. NE Atlanta, GA 30326 *by appointment only. February 24, 2023 36:53. We represent investors in claims against negligent brokers and brokerage firms. His demeanor was professional and pleasant and I would not hesitate to use him in future matters. The CFTC also strongly urges the public to verify a companys registration with the CFTC before committing funds. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals used false statements on its website, inflating its assets by billions and using fear tactics to motivate senior citizens to purchase the precious metals. companies or divisions. We are committed to holding those accountable who undermine the investing publics trust in our commodities markets through illegal conduct., Todays action demonstrates the commitment of state and federal regulators to work together to prevent investment fraud, said Joseph P. Borg, Co-chair of NASAAs Enforcement Section and Director of the Alabama Securities Commission. SACRAMENTO As part of a nationwide effort, the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), in partnership with the federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and 26 other state regulators, filed a federal lawsuit in Los Angeles against a precious metals dealer and its owner for perpetrating a $68 million fraudulent scheme that targeted the elderly. . It is important to speak with a lawyer about your case. Safeguard Metals LLC and its principal and owner, Jeffrey Santulan, also known as Jeffrey Hill, are charged with having engaged in ongoing fraud to solicit approximately $68 million in funds from more than 450 individuals nationwide to purchase fraudulently overpriced metals and coins from its office in Southern California. Severe Weather Alert "I spoke to Mr Sonn on a complex legal matter. The defendants also deceived customers into purchasing silver coins at grossly inflated prices that bore no relationship to the ranges represented to customers. ON SALE. text = allPs[i].innerHTML; Safeguard Metals LLC is a Wyoming Limited Liability Company with an office located in Woodland Hills, California. The company disclosed markups to consumers, which the company referred to as operating margins, of 23 percent and later up to 42 percent. The complaint seeks a permanent injunction to stop the deceptive and fraudulent practices, disgorgement, full restitution, rescission, and civil monetary penalties. Feb. 23, 2023. A baby food company is facing a class-action lawsuit in New York after a congressional report uncovered internal documents from several companies revealing potentially dangerous levels of heavy. Drug distributors, J&J to pay $590 mln to settle U.S. tribes' opioid claims REUTERS I was unable to withdraw my funds and customer service was not responsive. According to the complaint, Safeguard obtained approximately $67 million from the sale of coins to more than 450 mostly elderly, retail investors, and kept approximately $25.5 million in mark ups. In this case, it was silver coins. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The lawsuit alleges that Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffery Santulan, aka Jeffery Hill, solicited investors by targeting seniors through social media platforms and websites linked to media . allPs[i].innerHTML = text; Defendants/Respondents: Safeguard Metals, LLC; Santulan, Jeffrey aka Hill, Jeffrey. The complaint alleges that from approximately October 2017 and continuing through at least July 2021, the defendants fraudulently solicited and received approximately $68 million in customer fundsthe majority of which was retirement savingsfrom at least 450 persons throughout the US for the purpose of purchasing precious metals, primarily consisting of gold and silver coins. As the market continues to fluctuate, we anticipate more fraudsters using fear and uncertainty to manipulate good people out of their hard-earned money.. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) . The Sonn Law Group is currently investigating allegations surrounding Safeguard Metals, LLC and Jeffrey Santulan. 2023 2 oz Silver Tudor Beasts Yale of Beaufort Coin. Indiana Attorney. I will likely not live long enough to see this money ever recovered unless I can join a class action suit against Safeguard Metals. Is Nationwide Gold and Bullion Reserve legitimate? BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. The litigation will be led by Jonathan S. Polish. This joint investigative effort between the CFTC and 27 state regulators represents our mutual interest in protecting main street investors, said CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam. Breaking News Alert Well guide you through the process. 5, Report #1509255. The SEC also alleged that Safeguard and Santulan represented 4% to 33% markups, but actually charged average markups of approximately 64% on its sale of silver coins. 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