Jason Levin

Jason Levin stands out—a tale replete with deception, legal battles, and a relentless pursuit to silence dissent. Let’s delve into the murky waters of Levin’s endeavors, exposing the red flags and adverse media that potential investors and authorities should heed.

The Banyon Scheme: A Masterclass in Duplicity

Jason Levin’s foray into infamy began with his involvement in the Banyon 1030-32 scheme. Partnering with Frank Preve, Levin orchestrated the sale of promissory notes to unsuspecting investors, purporting to fund the purchase of confidential legal settlements. In reality, these settlements were as fictitious as a unicorn in a business suit. Levin personally guaranteed these notes, luring approximately 90 investors into a $50 to $58 million abyss of deceit. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was notably absent from this party, as no registration statement was filed—a glaring violation of securities law.

Legal Reckoning: The House of Cards Collapses

The façade couldn’t endure indefinitely. In May 2012, the SEC charged Levin with selling unregistered securities and committing fraud. Despite his valiant attempts to feign ignorance and innocence, the court was unconvinced. Levin’s absence during critical trial moments—due to a conveniently timed hospital admission in Panama—did little to sway judicial sympathy. The jury found him liable on all counts, resulting in a staggering $40.1 million disgorgement order. Apparently, crime doesn’t pay, especially when you’re caught red-handed.

A Pattern of Misconduct: The Grecian Debacle

Levin’s ethical lapses weren’t confined to financial fraud. Enter author Alex Grecian, who entrusted Levin with the media rights to his novel, “The Yard.” Levin’s management was, to put it mildly, a disaster. He unilaterally granted a “free option” to Sony Television without Grecian’s consent and misrepresented the attachment of producer Jason Netter to the film rights. These actions not only breached fiduciary duties but also showcased Levin’s penchant for operating in the shadows, sidelining the very clients he was supposed to serve.

The Censorship Crusade: Silencing the Critics

Faced with mounting negative publicity, Levin adopted a strategy reminiscent of a petulant child covering his ears and shouting to drown out criticism. Allegations suggest that he attempted to suppress adverse media reports, possibly through intimidation tactics aimed at media outlets. This approach mirrors other corporate attempts to stifle dissent, such as PulteGroup Inc.’s alleged efforts to muzzle unfavorable media coverage. Such actions not only betray a disregard for transparency but also pose significant risks to investors who rely on accurate information to make informed decisions.

Investor Advisory: Proceed with Extreme Caution

Given Levin’s track record—a tapestry woven with fraud, legal violations, and attempts to censor the truth—potential investors should exercise extreme caution. The red flags are not merely waving; they’re practically on fire. Regulatory authorities must also take heed, ensuring that individuals like Levin are held accountable and prevented from orchestrating further financial debacles.

Conclusion: The Imperative for Vigilance

In the labyrinth of financial investments, due diligence is not just advisable; it’s imperative. Jason Levin’s story serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the necessity for transparency, ethical conduct, and the unrelenting pursuit of truth. As we navigate these treacherous waters, let’s remain vigilant, question the narratives spun by those with dubious histories, and steadfastly defend the integrity of our financial systems.