FBI Hunts L.A. Tech CEO Who Stole over $26 Million From Investors, Fled U.S.
The FBI says Fritsch fled before sentencing after a jury found him guilty of wire fraud in a scheme that cost investors more than $20 million.
- On Thursday, the FBI added Bernhard Eugen Fritsch to its Most Wanted Fraudsters list, offering up to $150,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction.
- A jury convicted the Malibu resident of wire fraud in April 2025 after he defrauded investors of $20 million through Santa Monica-based StarClub Inc. to fund a lavish lifestyle.
- Fritsch fled to Mexico in June 2025 before his sentencing hearing, later relocating to Munich; a Los Angeles judge subsequently sentenced him in absentia to 15 years in prison, fining him $35,000 and ordering $26.8 million in restitution.
- Lucinda Jane Weist Manera, Fritsch's girlfriend, pleaded guilty in June 2026 to being an accessory after the fact for helping him evade authorities.
- The FBI will "unrelentingly seek his whereabouts," according to officials, urging anyone with information to contact a local FBI office, U.S. Embassy, or Consulate.
32 Articles
32 Articles
For years, a German had persuaded his victims in the US to invest in supposed technology. However, according to the FBI, he had other goals in mind with the collected money.
For years, a German had persuaded his victims in the US to invest in supposed technology. However, according to the FBI, he had other goals in mind with the collected money.
Luxury cars, an upgraded yacht and a villa in Malibu: A German entrepreneur is plunging investors for millions. After his conviction, he flees - now the FBI suspects him in Munich.
For years, a German had persuaded his victims in the US to invest in supposed technology. However, according to the FBI, he had other goals in mind with the collected money.
Malibu man on FBI's Most Wanted list allegedly conned investors out of than $20 million
A Malibu man who defrauded investors out of more than $20 million by lying to them about his technology company's financial performance has been added to the FBI's new Most Wanted Fraudsters list.
Bernhard Eugen Fritsch is said to have plowed investors for $35 million, and the FBI is now looking for the 65-year-old fugitive in Germany.
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