Washington Pastor Charged With Fraud Involving $13 Million Investment Scheme

Cristian Popescu, the 46-year-old pastor of Passion for Christ Church in Kirkland, Washington, has been indicted on 10 counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering. Federal prosecutors allege that Popescu solicited over $13 million from more than 30 investors, many of whom were members of his congregation, by promoting a social media platform called Followone, Inc. He reportedly claimed the business was generating significant revenue and would soon be listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

According to the indictment, Popescu encouraged congregants to liquidate retirement accounts and home equity to fund the venture, promising that their money would remain secure and accessible. Prosecutors allege that instead of investing the funds as promised, Popescu diverted at least $4.5 million for personal use. When investors later sought the return of their funds, the pastor allegedly dismissed their concerns by labeling them as demon-possessed. Popescu, a Romanian citizen residing in Bothell, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is scheduled for trial on December 21.