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FBI Renews Hunt for Alleged Fake Heiress Accused of $30 Million Bank Fraud

The bureau has issued a fresh public appeal for tips, saying Mary Carole McDonnell may be in Dubai.

Overview

  • Mary Carole McDonnell, 73, is wanted on federal charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft tied to a 2017–2018 scheme in Los Angeles and Orange counties.
  • Prosecutors say she posed as an heir to the McDonnell Aircraft family and claimed access to a secret $80 million trust to secure loans and credit.
  • The FBI alleges she obtained about $14.7 million from Banc of California and more than $15 million from other institutions, losses totaling nearly $30 million.
  • A federal arrest warrant was issued on December 12, 2018, and an indictment says loan proceeds were used to pay creditors and payroll at her Burbank company, Bellum Entertainment.
  • Agents released her aliases, physical description, and ties to Los Angeles and Montgomery, Alabama, and urged the public to submit tips to the FBI or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.