Why FBI added true crime producer to Most Wanted list
What's the story
Mary Carole McDonnell, the former CEO of Bellum Entertainment LLC, has been added to the FBI's Most Wanted list. The 73-year-old is accused of defrauding banks by falsely claiming to be an heir to the McDonnell Douglas Corporation. This alleged fraud reportedly led to a loss of nearly $30 million for multiple banks. The FBI believes she is currently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, as per CNN.
Fraud details
McDonnell's alleged fraudulent activities
The FBI alleges that between July 2017 and May 2018, McDonnell defrauded Banc of California by falsely presenting herself as an heir to the McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Corporation. She reportedly claimed to have access to a secret $80 million trust, using that claim to obtain a $14.7 million loan from the bank. The FBI also suspects her involvement in similar fraud schemes with other financial institutions, resulting in an estimated loss of over $15 million.
Background
McDonnell's background and legal troubles
McDonnell served as the CEO of Bellum Entertainment LLC, a Burbank-based TV production company, from 2004 to 2017. The company produced shows like It Takes a Killer and I Married a Murderer. In 2017, the California Labor Commission investigated Bellum over allegations that it had failed to pay former employees their wages. McDonnell reportedly told employees that payroll couldn't be met due to "significant bank fraud."
Description
McDonnell's physical description and current status
McDonnell is described as a white female, standing 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 66kg. She has blonde hair, blue eyes, and a scar on her right knee. A federal arrest warrant was issued for her on December 12, 2018, in the Central District of California after she was charged with bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. The FBI has requested that anyone with information about her contact their local FBI office or the nearest US embassy or consulate.