CNIR NEWSROOM | Church Accountability
A Washington pastor has been indicted on federal charges stemming from an alleged $13 million investment scheme that prosecutors say exploited the trust of church members and diverted money toward personal expenses and stock trading.
Cristian Popescu, 46, of Bothell, pastor of Passion for Christ in Kirkland, pleaded not guilty October 13 in federal court in Seattle. He faces ten counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering. His trial is scheduled for December 21, 2026.
A Business Opportunity Presented as a Spiritual Mission
According to the indictment, Popescu obtained at least $13 million in investments and loans through representations about Followone Inc., a Bellevue company he founded and operated. Prosecutors allege he diverted millions from the business, leaving investors with losses amounting to most or all of their investments.
Authorities say Popescu promoted Followone as a combination of an international online marketplace and a social network. Beginning as early as 2015, he allegedly made false claims about its earnings, the rising value of investors’ holdings and preparations for a Nasdaq listing.
Prosecutors allege he recruited more than 30 investors, including members of his congregation. He allegedly told church members God had chosen them to participate and that investing would help advance the church’s mission.
Retirement Accounts and College Savings Allegedly Targeted
The alleged fundraising reached into money families had set aside for their futures. Authorities say Popescu encouraged investors to withdraw retirement savings, take out personal or home equity loans and use funds intended for their children’s education.
He allegedly assured investors that their money would stay within Followone and that they could request its return at any time. Prosecutors contend those assurances were part of the deception used to obtain their funds.
Prosecutors Describe an Appearance of Business Success
Federal authorities allege Popescu used misleading publicity, expensive office space and exaggerated staffing claims to make Followone appear commercially successful.
He allegedly claimed the company employed 20 people when only three worked there. Prosecutors also say he used companies under his control to create the impression that Followone had legitimate business relationships.
According to authorities, investor funds paid fabricated invoices before being routed through those businesses for his benefit. These transactions allegedly helped conceal how the money was being used.
Millions Allegedly Transferred to Family Accounts
Prosecutors say more than $4.5 million in Followone funds went into accounts belonging to Popescu, his wife and other relatives. He also allegedly paid himself more than $1 million in wages between 2017 and 2024.
Authorities allege his wife received approximately $300,000 even though she was not employed by Followone. These financial allegations form part of the government’s account of how money raised from investors was diverted.
Investors Who Questioned Him Allegedly Faced Spiritual Accusations
When investors sought repayment, Popescu allegedly delayed returning their money by claiming withdrawals would disrupt the anticipated stock listing.
Prosecutors further allege that when some investors challenged his explanations or questioned the company’s condition, he invoked his religious authority and accused them of being demonically possessed.
Not-Guilty Plea Entered as Federal Case Proceeds
The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating the case. Popescu was released under electronic monitoring while awaiting trial, despite objections from prosecutors.
An indictment is a formal accusation, not a conviction. Popescu has denied the charges through his not-guilty plea and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
SOURCE VERIFICATION
U.S. Department of Justice — Official charges and case details
Federal Indictment — United States v. Cristian Popescu
Premier Christian News — Washington pastor indicted over alleged $13m fraud
Disclaimer:
The information presented in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any decisions. Source: Christian News & Investigative Reports (CNIR) — cnirbc.com Reporting the headline. Investigating the facts
