Landshut Entrepreneur on FBI's Most Wanted List for $35 Million Investment Fraud

Bernhard Eugen Fritsch, originally from Landshut, Bavaria, has been placed on the FBI's Most Wanted list for allegedly defrauding US investors of approximately $35 million through his technology company "Starclub Inc." Fritsch misrepresented contracts and diverted investor funds for personal expenses. He is suspected of being in or near Munich after fleeing Mexico in October 2025.

Overview of the Fraud Case

The FBI has placed entrepreneur Bernhard Eugen Fritsch on its Most Wanted list for allegedly defrauding US investors of approximately $35 million. Fritsch operated a technology company called "Starclub Inc.," which purportedly developed software and applications to help celebrities and social media influencers monetize their brand endorsements.

How the Fraud Operated

Fritsch deceived investors through several methods:

False Contract Claims: Claimed to possess contracts with major global media and entertainment companies
Financial Misrepresentation: Falsely represented Starclub's financial performance to solicit investments
Fund Diversion: Diverted at least $7.3 million in investor funds for personal use, including housing costs, mortgage payments, and luxury vehicles

Timeline of Events

April 2025: Convicted of fraud by a California court
June 2025: Fled to Mexico before a bail hearing
September 2025: Arrested by Mexican authorities for possession of forged identification documents; later released from immigration detention
October 6, 2025: Fled to Munich, Germany
October 20, 2025: Sentenced in absentia to 15 years imprisonment, $35,000 fine, and ordered to pay $26.8 million in restitution

Warning Signs of Investment Fraud

Red Flags to Watch For:

Unproven companies claiming partnerships with established industry leaders
Reluctance to provide detailed financial statements or contracts
Promises of unusually high returns within short timeframes
Emphasis on the founder's social connections and celebrity associations rather than verifiable business credentials
High-pressure sales tactics or urgency in decision-making

Prevention Tips

Verify company registration, financial records, and partnerships through regulatory agencies (SEC, etc.)
Directly confirm claimed partnerships with major companies
Have all investment contracts reviewed by a qualified legal professional
Request audited financial statements and independent verification of performance claims
Be skeptical of opportunities that seem too good to be true

Reporting Resources

United States: SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission), FBI, FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Germany/Bavaria: Landshut Police, Bavarian State Prosecutor's Office
International: Interpol, local financial regulatory authorities