West Columbia, SC, August 30, 2025
News Summary
David Raymond Brown, a film producer from West Columbia, was arrested facing federal charges related to a fraud scheme amounting to approximately $12 million. The indictment includes 21 counts, such as wire fraud and money laundering, with Brown accused of misusing funds from his film production companies for personal expenses. He is currently detained and has a upcoming court hearing. If convicted, he faces significant prison time.
West Columbia Film Producer David Brown Arrested for Alleged $12 Million Fraud Scheme
West Columbia, SC – Film producer David Raymond Brown, 39, was arrested on August 27, 2025, facing serious federal charges for defrauding individuals and organizations out of approximately $12 million. Brown now confronts a federal indictment by a grand jury in the Central District of California on 21 counts, including nine counts of wire fraud, ten counts of money laundering, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
Currently detained at Barnwell County Detention Center, Brown is scheduled for a detention hearing on September 4, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina. The indictment outlines that from December 2021 to August 2025, Brown illicitly transferred funds from the bank accounts of his film production companies to his personal accounts, disguised as legitimate production expenses.
Among his ventures was Hollywood Covid Testing LLC, which invoiced film studios for COVID-19 testing services that were either already compensated or never rendered. Brown also controlled Film Holdings Capital, intended for financing film projects, but allegedly misused these funds for personal expenses, including luxury vehicles and home renovations. The indictment cites specific purchases, such as a 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, three Teslas—including a Cybertruck—and a $99,000 swimming pool installation.
Additionally, the indictment claims Brown misused over $970,000 for a personal film project about the kidnapping of Patricia Hearst, which ultimately did not come to fruition. His operations have been described as a Ponzi-like scheme because he allegedly repaid defrauded individuals using funds from Film Holdings Capital. Brown is also charged with identity theft for unauthorized use of another individual’s IMDb profile to bolster his credentials for securing financing.
Brown’s alleged fraudulent activities extend beyond film production. He faces accusations from investors in a house-flipping business, wherein he purportedly utilized their funds to maintain his lifestyle while contributing minimally to the operation. If convicted, Brown risks significant jail time, facing up to 20 years for each wire fraud charge, 10 years for each money laundering charge, and a mandatory minimum of two years for each identity theft conviction.
Prior to his relocation to West Columbia in 2023 amid previous fraud allegations discussed in a Los Angeles Times article, Brown resided in Sherman Oaks, California. He has a diverse history in the film industry, taking on various roles including producer and production accountant. Following his upcoming hearing, Brown is expected to be arraigned at the federal courthouse in Los Angeles after being transferred from South Carolina.
Prosecutors highlight that Brown concealed crucial information from his victims, including prior fraud-related articles and lawsuits. The investigation into his activities is being conducted by the FBI alongside the IRS Criminal Investigation Division.
FAQs
Who is David Brown?
David Raymond Brown is a 39-year-old film producer who was recently arrested on federal charges for allegedly defrauding individuals and organizations of approximately $12 million.
When was Brown arrested?
Brown was arrested on August 27, 2025.
What are the charges against him?
He faces 21 counts, including nine counts of wire fraud, ten counts of money laundering, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
What did Brown allegedly do with the misappropriated funds?
He allegedly used the funds for personal expenses, including luxury vehicles and home renovations, while misrepresenting them as production expenses.
What is the potential penalty if convicted?
If convicted, Brown could face up to 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge, 10 years for each money laundering charge, and a minimum of two years for each identity theft conviction.
Summary of Key Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | David Raymond Brown |
| Arrest Date | August 27, 2025 |
| Charges | 21 counts (9 wire fraud, 10 money laundering, 2 identity theft) |
| Alleged Fraud Amount | $12 million |
| Location of Arrest | Barnwell County, South Carolina |
| Next Court Date | September 4, 2025 |
| Previous Residence | Sherman Oaks, California |
| Possible Sentencing | Up to 20 years for wire fraud; 10 years for money laundering; minimum 2 years for identity theft |
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