Part-Time Actor Sentenced to Over 8 Years in Prison for COVID-19 Fraud
Background
A part-time actor was sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison on Monday for soliciting investors in companies that marketed a bogus cure and treatment for COVID-19. Keith Lawrence Middlebrook, 57, was convicted in May of 11 counts of wire fraud.
Claims of Innocence
Ahead of sentencing, Middlebrook told The Times that he was "innocent completely" and that "this is going to be appealed." During the hearing in federal court in Los Angeles, he stated that he had consulted with seven attorneys and eight doctors "from the very beginning" for a product of this magnitude.
Sentencing Hearing
U.S. District Judge Dale S. Fischer handed down the sentence, citing concerns that Middlebrook’s continued denial of his guilt poses a risk of further criminal activity. "It is clear that Mr. Middlebrook still denies that he has committed any crime, which causes significant concern that he will continue to commit similar crimes in the future," she said.
Controversy Surrounds Magic Johnson
A major point of contention during the sentencing hearing centered around Middlebrook’s alleged relationship with former Lakers point guard Magic Johnson. Middlebrook claimed that Johnson was a director and officer of one of his companies, but Johnson testified that he had never supported, invested in, or been an officer or a member of the board of directors of Middlebrook’s company.
Prosecutors’ Claims of Perjury
Prosecutors accused Middlebrook of perjuring himself when he testified that he had met Johnson over a hundred times and had extensive conversations with him about the "fake cure and prevention pill." The judge agreed, stating that "it is inconceivable that [Johnson] would have forgotten that Mr. Middlebrook approached him about investing in a vaccine."
Defense’s Response
Middlebrook’s attorney, Andrew Stein, claimed that Johnson was the "biggest liar" and that they would "prove it." Stein also stated that a Stanford doctor had testified that Middlebrook’s compound worked.
Conclusion
Middlebrook was remanded into custody and will serve three years of supervised release after his prison sentence. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of fraudulent activities, particularly during times of crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was sentenced to prison for COVID-19 fraud?
A: Keith Lawrence Middlebrook, a part-time actor, was sentenced to more than eight years in federal prison.
Q: What was Middlebrook charged with?
A: Middlebrook was charged with 11 counts of wire fraud.
Q: What was the alleged fraudulent scheme?
A: Middlebrook claimed to have developed a "patent-pending" cure and treatment for COVID-19 and solicited investors for his companies.
Q: What was the role of Magic Johnson in the case?
A: Magic Johnson testified that he was not involved with Middlebrook’s companies and had never met with Middlebrook to discuss the "fake cure and prevention pill." Middlebrook’s claims of a relationship with Johnson were deemed perjury.
