Carl Rinsch Indictment: Netflix’s $61 Million Sci-Fi Scandal Explained

A filmmaker faces federal charges for an alleged multi-million dollar fraud. Carl Erik Rinsch was arrested in Los Angeles on March 18, 2025. Prosecutors say he misused $11 million in Netflix production funds. The money was meant for a sci-fi series called “White Horse.”Netflix never received a single episode. Instead, authorities allege Rinsch went on a lavish personal spending spree. The case highlights the risks of Hollywood’s streaming-era spending frenzy.

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According to FBI testimony, the spending was immediate and extravagant. Rinsch allegedly transferred $10.5 million to personal accounts right after receiving Netflix‘s final $11 million payment in March 2020. Court documents detail a stunning list of purchases.He reportedly spent $2.4 million on luxury cars, including a Ferrari and multiple Rolls-Royces. Furniture and antiques cost another $3.36 million. Four luxury mattresses alone had a combined price tag of $638,000.

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The spending extended far beyond physical goods. Rinsch allegedly moved millions into cryptocurrency trading, boasting he had become “The Dogecoin Whale.” He also racked up over $1.8 million in American Express charges.In one surreal detail, the FBI tracked over 480 food delivery orders in just six months. These came via Postmates and Uber Eats, sometimes with a dozen orders in a single day. According to Reuters, this financial trail forms the core of the wire fraud and money laundering case.Rinsch’s defense claims he is a misunderstood artist. His attorney compared him to “Vincent van Gogh with a Netflix deal.” Rinsch himself argued the Rolls-Royces were props for the show. The jury has appeared skeptical of these explanations.

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The “Carl Rinsch indictment” marks a spectacular collapse for a director once trusted with a major franchise. For Netflix, it represents a $61 million lesson in vetting creative partners.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What was Carl Rinsch originally hired to make for Netflix?

Netflix hired Rinsch to create a sci-fi series initially titled “White Horse.” The high-concept show about artificial intelligence was meant to be a flagship franchise. Executives once believed it could rival series like “Westworld.”

How much total money did Netflix invest in the project?

Netflix invested a total of $61 million into Carl Rinsch’s project. This included an initial $44.3 million for production, followed by a final $11 million payment in March 2020 that is central to the fraud allegations.

What happened to the “White Horse” series?

The series was never completed. Netflix received no episodes, not even a rough cut. The project was completely written off by the streamer in late 2020, making it the most expensive Netflix production to yield zero finished content.

What are the specific charges Carl Rinsch faces?

Rinsch faces federal charges including wire fraud and money laundering. He is also charged with five counts of unlawful financial transactions. If convicted on all counts, he could potentially face decades in prison.

Did Rinsch have any notable prior work?

Yes, his only major directorial credit before Netflix was the 2013 film “47 Ronin” starring Keanu Reeves. That film was a notorious box office bomb, costing up to $225 million but earning only $150 million worldwide.

Has there been any outcome from civil proceedings?

Yes. A confidential arbitration in 2023 resulted in Netflix being awarded $11.8 million in damages. Rinsch did not pay this award and instead counter-sued, claiming Netflix owed him an additional $14 million.