FBI agents arrested an Upstate man they said was involved in a Ponzi scheme that tried to lure in investors with millions to spend in the name of charity.
According to an affidavit filed in federal court by Special Agent Paul Jacobs.
The investigation started with unsolicted emails which eventually lead to a phone call with Alan Peter D'arcy of Salem.
According to Jacobs D'arcy said through the United Nations, investors could give $50 million to the Haitian earthquake relief program and receive a return of 50 percent per month for 10 months at no risk.
Kathy Barrett with the Better Business Bureau said whether he's asking for $100 dollars or $100 million, there are big warning signs with this sales pitch.
"First of all, you're giving to the charity because you want to give. So, if you're investing to make money, there's already a problem there," said Barrett. "When they start telling you that it's safe -- 100 percent safe -- I don't know too many things that are 100 percent safe, and I can guarantee you that investments are not one of them."
The Better Business Bureau said before you give check the Secretary of State's Web site.
All legitimate charities should be registered there.
Also, ask the charity for its 501 C-3 letter which makes it official with the government.
Finally check give.org or other Web sites that examine charities to see how much of the money they collect is going to the cause you want to help.
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