A SPECIAL REPORT: FRAUD
HIGH AND DRY: In the mid-’80s, the FBI suspected that Michael Maddox of San Clemente had stolen more than $2 million from investors. . . . But bigger cases soon took precedence, and the Maddox con went unattended. Figuring he was home free, Maddox bought a bottle of champagne, intending to open it five years later when the statute of limitations expired. . . . But only three days before champagne time, Maddox was arrested. “He was so angry,” Special Agent Jim Donckels says.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
