By SNN Newsroom | October 14, 2026
A pastor associated with a Kirkland, Washington congregation pleaded not guilty on October 13 in federal court in Seattle to 10 wire-fraud counts and five money-laundering counts related to an alleged $13 million investment scheme.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington, Cristian Popescu, 46, of Bothell, promoted an online marketplace and social-media venture called Followone and solicited investments from more than 30 people, including members of his congregation.
Federal prosecutors allege that funds represented as business investments were instead diverted for personal expenses and stock trades. The indictment also alleges transfers of several million dollars to Popescu and family-related accounts.
Popescu has pleaded not guilty. The criminal charges are allegations, not findings of fact. He is presumed innocent unless prosecutors prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The court ordered release on electronic monitoring over prosecutors’ objections, according to the Justice Department.
Trial was scheduled for December 21, 2026, when the indictment was announced. Further court orders could change the schedule.
Primary source and indictment: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington, October 13.
