Attorney General James Uthmeier secures conviction of fraudster who targeted Florida seniors in a gold mine scam

Tallahassee, Florida – Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution has successfully secured a conviction in a case that sheds light on a disturbing pattern of exploitation targeting vulnerable senior citizens. Bernard Joseph McBride Jr., the mastermind behind a fraudulent investment scheme, was convicted of defrauding Florida residents out of more than $575,000. McBride’s operation, disguised as a gold mining business, preyed upon seniors, leading them to invest their retirement savings in a company that didn’t exist.

McBride, who ran a business called Tutela Mining, Inc., told his victims that his company was the proud owner of a gold mine in California. He convinced many of them, particularly seniors, to invest in his venture, promising them high, guaranteed returns—either in gold or cash. The victims were led to believe that their money would grow in a booming business. However, as investigators uncovered, McBride’s promises were nothing more than an elaborate ruse.

“My office is ensuring that criminals can’t get away with defrauding Florida’s seniors,” said Attorney General Uthmeier. “Thanks to Chief Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Jonathan Bridges and Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Joshua Dockus, working with our law enforcement partners, we ensured this con man stays behind bars.”

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The investigation, spearheaded by the Office of Statewide Prosecution, revealed that McBride never owned a gold mine. Bank records, along with testimonies, showed that the funds collected from the victims did not go toward any legitimate business venture. Instead, the money was used to line McBride’s pockets and those of his family members, many of whom were listed as employees at Tutela Mining. In fact, these family members had no actual role in the company, holding no-show jobs. McBride even used some of the stolen funds to pay for his stepdaughter’s wedding.

The case against McBride culminated in a conviction on multiple charges. He was found guilty of one count of grand theft over $100,000 and two counts of grand theft over $20,000 but less than $100,000. As a result of the conviction, McBride faces a significant prison sentence, with the possibility of serving up to 60 years in state prison. The case also highlights the ongoing issue of financial crimes committed against seniors, a demographic often targeted by scammers.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Office of Financial Regulation were instrumental in the investigation that led to McBride’s conviction. Their collaboration ensured that justice was served for the many victims affected by his fraudulent actions.

This case is a stark reminder of the growing issue of fraud aimed at seniors. Older Floridians are increasingly becoming targets of deceptive schemes, which can result in the loss of life savings and financial security. To prevent future fraud, Attorney General Uthmeier has issued several key tips to help seniors protect themselves:

• Beware of high-pressure tactics used by callers or solicitors.
• Consult with trusted family members or friends about any suspicious calls, emails, or requests for information.
• Never provide personal information to anyone you don’t know.
• Regularly monitor your financial accounts for any suspicious activity.
• Be cautious when receiving unsolicited emails or links in text messages.

Additionally, Attorney General Uthmeier’s office offers resources to help seniors recognize and avoid scams. The “Scams at a Glance” program provides brochures on a variety of common fraudulent schemes, from grandparent scams to contractor fraud. These brochures are available free of charge and can be shared easily to raise awareness about the dangers of scams. Seniors and their families can access these resources on the Attorney General’s website at MyFloridaLegal.com/ScamsAtAGlance.

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If Floridians suspect they’ve encountered a scam, they are encouraged to report it immediately. The Attorney General’s office can be reached by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or visiting the website to file a complaint.

As a result of this case, the conviction of Bernard Joseph McBride Jr. sends a strong message to would-be fraudsters: those who target seniors and commit financial crimes will be held accountable. The Office of Statewide Prosecution, under the leadership of Attorney General Uthmeier, remains steadfast in its commitment to protect Florida’s vulnerable citizens, ensuring that justice prevails for those affected by fraudulent schemes.

While this case has concluded, the fight against financial exploitation continues, and Florida’s seniors can rest assured that their safety is a top priority for law enforcement officials throughout the state.