News Summary
Mint Hill real estate agent Brian Haigler has pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud charges involving over $1.7 million. His scheme exploited investors and church funds, raising concerns over financial ethics in the community. Haigler faces severe legal repercussions, including potential imprisonment and a plea agreement yet to be publicly disclosed.
Mint Hill, North Carolina – Realtor Pleads Guilty to $1.7 Million Wire Fraud Scheme
A local real estate agent in Mint Hill has admitted to federal charges of wire fraud, involving a scheme that defrauded investors of more than $1.5 million and included embezzlement from his church. The accused, Brian Haigler, pleaded guilty in court and could face significant federal prison time once sentencing is finalized.
Allegations and Scheme Details
Prosecutors allege that Haigler used false statements to recruit friends and investors, promising high returns from real estate investments and property improvements. Instead of fulfilling these promises, he allegedly diverted funds for personal use and to pay earlier investors, an arrangement similar to a Ponzi scheme.
Between February 2019 and December 2021, Haigler is accused of defrauding investors of over $1 million. His victims included acquaintances who trusted him based partly on his association with the local church and perceived Christian identity. One investor, Lester Rivenbark, provided $150,000 with the expectation of earning a $15,000 profit within three months—a return that was never received.
Misuse of Church Funds and Fraudulent Activities
In addition to investment fraud, Haigler was involved in embezzling church funds. Records reveal he diverted approximately $389,000 from his church, Living Praise Church of God in Monroe, from July 2019 through December 2021. The church’s leaders were unaware of these activities until investigators uncovered the scheme.
Further, in April 2021, Haigler obtained an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) of about $311,000 using church funds without church approval. The EIDL program, established under the CARES Act, was designed to provide pandemic relief to small businesses affected by COVID-19. Haigler admitted to the unauthorized use of church funds for this loan during a confession to his pastor in March 2022.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Federal prosecutors filed charges against Haigler in late June, accusing him of wire fraud and related crimes. Investigators state that his fraudulent activities resulted in total losses exceeding $1.7 million. Despite a plea agreement, the specific terms have not been publicly disclosed.
Haigler faces potential up to 20 years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled once the court proceeds. Currently, his wife is not implicated or facing charges related to the case.
Background and Context
Haigler previously operated S&B Real Estate Investments with his wife. Although only Haigler faces criminal charges, authorities are scrutinizing his and his wife’s roles in managing the business and related transactions. The case highlights potential issues regarding oversight and accountability within faith-based organizations and how personal financial misconduct can occur under the guise of religious affiliation.
The case also underscores the risks of trusting financial dealings based on personal relationships and perceived moral character, especially involving individuals with connections to religious institutions. To date, there has been no public announcement regarding efforts to recover lost funds for victims or detailed information about the named victims or the church involved.
Implications and Recommendations
This case serves as a reminder to organizations, including churches, to implement strong financial controls and regular audits to prevent fraud and embezzlement. It also emphasizes the importance for investors to conduct due diligence and seek comprehensive documentation before investing substantial sums, particularly when investment promises seem unusually favorable or lack transparency.
As the legal process continues, authorities will determine the full extent of Haigler’s financial misconduct and whether additional charges or victims emerge. Meanwhile, the case remains a cautionary tale about the necessity of transparency and accountability in managing funds, especially within community and faith-based settings.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: Realtor Ripped Off Friends and Church
- WCNC: Mint Hill NC Realtor Wire Fraud
- Ministry Watch: NC Realtor Pleads Guilty
- Wikipedia: Wire Fraud
- Charlotte Observer: Real Estate News
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
