Columbus Man Pleads Guilty to Five Felony Charges in Investment Fraud Case

Manning pleaded guilty to a second-degree felony charge of Theft from a Person in a Protected Class, one third-degree felony charge of False Representations in the Sale of Securities and three third-degree felony charges of Sale of Unregistered Securities in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. Sentencing is scheduled for January 8.<_o3a_p>

Manning was originally indicted on Sept. 10, 2024, and Dec. 11, 2024, following an investigation conducted by the Ohio Division of Securities. According to the indictments, Manning solicited at least five central Ohio residents to invest over $640,000 in promissory notes issued by his company, Blue Logic Capital, LLC, for a variety of projects including the purchase, renovation, and resale of a residential home, development of a revolutionary new oil pump, and construction of luxurious residential assisted living homes. <_o3a_p>

Manning misappropriated investor funds for his own personal use as well as to repay other investors. In addition, Manning omitted material facts from investors and the promissory notes were not properly registered with the Division for sale in or from Ohio.<_o3a_p>

"Ohioans place their trust in those professionals who offer financial opportunities, and when that trust is violated, the consequences can be devastating to investors," said Ohio Securities Commissioner Andrea Seidt. "We will continue to work diligently to protect investors, uphold the integrity of our markets, and ensure that those who misuse Ohioans' hard-earned money are held accountable."

This case is being prosecuted by the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office in partnership with the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Securities.

Ohioans with any questions or concerns about investments or financial advisors should contact the Division of Securities at 614-644-7381, [email protected], or by completing its online contact form here.