Pastor Cristian Popescu Indicted for $13 Million Investment Fraud Scheme

Cristian Popescu, 46, the pastor of Passion for Christ Church in Kirkland, Washington, has been indicted on federal charges related to an alleged investment fraud scheme amounting to $13 million. Prosecutors assert that Popescu exploited his position within the church to persuade more than 30 congregants to invest in a company he claimed was a successful online marketplace preparing for a stock market debut.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) reports that Popescu pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance in Seattle. He faces ten counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering, with a trial scheduled for December 21, 2026. Despite prosecutors' objections, he has been released under electronic monitoring as he awaits trial.

According to the indictment, Popescu began promoting Followone, a Bellevue-based company, as early as 2015, presenting it as a global online marketplace and social networking platform. He allegedly misrepresented the company's financial status, claiming it was generating millions and was close to a Nasdaq listing, while in reality, the platform was largely non-functional.

The indictment details how Popescu used his religious authority to gain the trust of his congregation, telling them that God had chosen them for this investment opportunity. He assured investors that their money would remain secure within the company and could be withdrawn at any time. However, when investors later sought to reclaim their funds, Popescu allegedly delayed repayments, citing concerns that doing so could jeopardize the company's planned stock market listing.

Manipulation of Investor Trust and Communication

Popescu reportedly encouraged church members to invest substantial sums, urging them to access retirement accounts and take out loans to do so. Allegations also suggest that he imposed strict communication protocols on investors, including the signing of non-disclosure agreements and the use of encrypted messaging services.

The Real Play

Prosecutors allege that Popescu created the illusion of a thriving business by utilizing misleading press releases and maintaining a lavish office space, despite the company being evicted for unpaid rent. The indictment claims that he transferred over $4.5 million from Followone to personal accounts belonging to himself and his family, including more than $1 million in wages drawn from the company between 2017 and 2024.

The case is currently being investigated by the FBI and the IRS Criminal Investigation division, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Wilkinson handling the prosecution. Wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while money laundering could result in an additional 10 years. The indictment emphasizes that the allegations remain unproven until a verdict is reached in court.