Fighting Fraud, Delivering Justice: Ohio Securities Division Recovers Millions for Victims in 2025

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio investors will be better protected in the New Year thanks to various key efforts made by the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Securities throughout 2025. The Division delivered strong results for investors, leading multiple enforcement actions that secured millions of dollars in restitution and upheld criminal accountability for those involved in financial fraud.

In 2025, the Division secured significant financial judgments and criminal sentences against perpetrators of financial crimes. This includes $25.5 million ordered through civil restitution, and $3.2 million ordered through criminal restitution.

Beyond financial penalties, 15 individuals remain incarcerated as a result of enforcement actions stemming from Division investigations and referrals made both this year and in prior years, underscoring the long-term impact of the Division's commitment to pursuing justice for victims of investment fraud.

In addition to enforcement actions, the Division distributed $409,720 from the Ohio Investor Recovery Fund over the past year to 24 victims of fraud who have not received restitution from perpetrators. The Fund serves as a vital safety net, providing monetary relief to eligible victims who have suffered financial losses due to securities violations.

Securities Commissioner Andrea Seidt says these efforts reflect the Division's ongoing commitment to protecting Ohioans and maintaining integrity in the marketplace.

"I am incredibly proud of the work the Division does every day on behalf of Ohioans," Seidt said. "These actions show the Securities Division will always do what is necessary to protect all Ohioans from financial fraud and make sure those who break the law are held accountable for their actions."

Ohioans who are considering an investment or suspect they have been scammed should contact the Division of Securities' Investor Protection Hotline at 877-683-7841 for guidance or to file a complaint by visiting com.ohio.gov/SecuritiesComplaint. The Division has also compiled a range of helpful consumer education resources on its website, which are available at com.ohio.gov/InvestorResources.

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About the Division of Securities
The Division of Securities is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.