FBI Seeks Mary Carole McDonnell for Alleged $30 Million Fraud Scheme

Mary Carole McDonnell, a 73-year-old woman from Michigan, is wanted by the FBI for allegedly orchestrating a fraud scheme that defrauded banks and financial institutions of nearly $30 million. The scheme reportedly took place in Los Angeles and Orange counties, California, from July 2017 to May 2018. McDonnell is accused of posing as an heiress to the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, claiming access to an $80 million secret trust, despite the corporation no longer being operational.

NBC Los AngelesFBI Reports Woman Defrauded Banks and Institutions of $30M by Posing as HeiressPeople MagazineNBC NewsFox News (website)Orange County Register

According to the FBI, McDonnell fraudulently obtained approximately $14.7 million from the Banc of California, knowing she was not entitled to the funds. Additionally, she is alleged to have defrauded other financial institutions of over $15 million using similar deceptive practices. At the time of the alleged fraud, McDonnell served as the chief executive officer of Bellum Entertainment LLC, a now-defunct production company known for producing true crime shows. The company faced financial difficulties, including issues with payroll, which McDonnell reportedly attributed to "significant bank fraud."

NBC Los AngelesFBI Reports Woman Defrauded Banks and Institutions of $30M by Posing as HeiressNBC NewsFox News (website)People MagazineOrange County Register

A federal arrest warrant was issued for McDonnell on December 12, 2018, after she was charged with bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. The FBI believes she may currently be in Dubai, where she has ties, along with connections to Montgomery, Alabama. McDonnell is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing 145 pounds, with blonde hair, blue eyes, and a scar on her right knee. She is known to use several aliases, including Mary Carole Carroll and Mary C. Carroll.

Orange County Register

While the FBI has been actively pursuing McDonnell, some critics have raised concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement in tracking down individuals involved in large-scale fraud schemes. The complexity of financial fraud cases often leads to prolonged investigations, leaving victims and institutions vulnerable.

FBI Reports Woman Defrauded Banks and Institutions of $30M by Posing as Heiress

The FBI has urged anyone with information regarding McDonnell's whereabouts to contact their local FBI office or the nearest American embassy or consulate. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the FBI's website. The agency's most wanted bulletin emphasizes the seriousness of the allegations against McDonnell and the significant financial impact of her actions on various institutions.

People Magazine

• “Through this scheme, McDonnell allegedly and fraudulently obtained a total of approximately $14.7 million from the bank to which she knew she was not entitled and has not paid back,” — FBI Statement

NBC Los Angeles

• “McDonnell falsely claims to be an heir to the McDonnell Aircraft Family, with an $80 million secret trust to which she will have access.” — FBI Statement

Orange County Register

As the search for Mary Carole McDonnell continues, authorities remain vigilant in tracking her movements and gathering information from the public. The case highlights the ongoing challenges in combating financial fraud and the importance of public awareness in reporting suspicious activities.

FBI Reports Woman Defrauded Banks and Institutions of $30M by Posing as Heiress