Florida Advisor Andrew Jacobus Sentenced after Ponzi Scheme Conviction

Andrew Jacobus Sentenced to 20 Years in $94 Million Ponzi Scheme

Fort Lauderdale Financial Advisor Andrew Jacobus Sentenced to Federal Prison

Former Fort Lauderdale financial advisor Andrew Hamilton Jacobus, 64, has reportedly been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for orchestrating a $94 million international Ponzi scheme that defrauded more than 150 investors.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Jacobus pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges before receiving his sentence on February 6, 2026. Prosecutors described the case as a large-scale international fraud that primarily targeted Venezuelan nationals and faith-based institutions.

The White Law Group continues to investigate potential recovery options for investors harmed by Jacobus’ scheme.

Details of the $94 Million Ponzi Scheme

Federal prosecutors alleged that between 2004 and 2023, Jacobus falsely portrayed himself as a seasoned financial advisor managing legitimate investment portfolios.

Instead, authorities say he:

• Solicited funds through multiple corporations he controlled

• Promised secure investment products and high-yield returns

• Forged account statements and falsified documentation

• Used new investor funds to pay earlier investors

• Diverted millions for luxury personal expenditures

Victims reportedly included:

• Venezuelan professionals, including lawyers and doctors

• Members of the Venezuelan Archdiocese

• Former employees

• Members of his own family

In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones stated that the case represented a “$94 million international fraud built on lies and broken trust,” emphasizing the severe harm caused to families and faith-based institutions.

Entities Allegedly Used in the Scheme

According to prior indictments and civil complaints, Jacobus allegedly operated through several entities, including:

• Finser International Corporation

• Kronus Management

• Kronus Financial Corp.

• Serfincorp Asset Management

These firms were reportedly used to solicit investments in purported high-yield products, including certificates of deposit and IPO-related opportunities.

SEC Civil Charges and Regulatory History

In May 2025, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil enforcement action against Jacobus and affiliated entities. The SEC alleged that:

• More than $17.3 million was misappropriated from at least 40 clients (2015–2024)

• Investors were provided fabricated account statements

• Client funds were diverted for personal use

• Funds were used to pay other investors in Ponzi-like fashion

According to the SEC’s system, Jacobus was previously registered with Finser International Corporation from 2010 to 2021. His record reportedly includes:

• A 2020 SEC sanction involving violations of the Investment Advisers Act

• A 2024 personal bankruptcy filing

• The 2025 SEC civil enforcement action

Criminal Sentencing Does Not Guarantee Investor Recovery

While the 20-year federal sentence represents a significant criminal penalty, criminal proceedings often do not result in full financial recovery for victims.

In many investment fraud cases, investors may have additional claims against:

• Supervising broker-dealers

• Investment advisory firms

• Compliance departments that failed to detect red flags

• Firms that conducted inadequate due diligence

Investors who were introduced to Jacobus through another brokerage firm or financial institution may have potential claims through FINRA arbitration, depending on the circumstances.

Potential for FINRA Arbitration Recovery

While criminal penalties and SEC enforcement actions may hold Jacobus accountable, they rarely result in full restitution for investors. However, those who invested through a third-party adviser or broker-dealer may have alternative recovery options through FINRA Arbitration.

The White Law Group is reviewing whether advisory firms failed to supervise Jacobus or made unsuitable recommendations involving:

• Corfiser SIMI Fund (Kronus High Yield Fund)
• Finser International Corporation
• Kronus Management
• Serfincorp Asset Management

Contact a Securities Fraud Attorney

If you or a loved one suffered losses related to Andrew Hamilton Jacobus or any affiliated entities, you may have legal options.

The White Law Group offers free case evaluations and represents investors nationwide in securities fraud and FINRA arbitration matters.

Call 888-637-5510 or visit www.whitesecuritieslaw.com to learn more about your legal options.