Fake Airline Heiress Charged in Multi-Million Dollar Bank Fraud

A 72-year-old woman is wanted by the FBI for a massive bank fraud scheme. Mary Carole McDonnell posed as an airline fortune heiress to steal millions. She allegedly fled the United States and is now believed to be in Dubai. Federal authorities are seeking information on her whereabouts.

Advertisement

Mary Carole McDonnell faces federal charges for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. According to the FBI, her scheme targeted financial institutions in Southern California. The alleged crimes occurred between July 2017 and May 2018.

McDonnell presented herself as an heir to the McDonnell Aircraft fortune. She claimed to have access to a secret $80 million trust fund. Banks were reportedly convinced by this fabricated backstory.

The FBI states she used this false identity to obtain loans and funds. She allegedly defrauded Banc of California out of approximately $14.7 million. The warrant for her arrest was issued in December 2018.

Authorities allege the total fraud exceeds $30 million across multiple institutions. The scheme involved obtaining money she knew she was not entitled to receive. She has not repaid the stolen funds.

International Manhunt for Suspect Believed to Be in Dubai

The search for McDonnell has become international. The FBI’s most wanted listing indicates she is currently in Dubai. This belief has shifted the investigation’s focus overseas.

McDonnell has known ties to several locations. These include Los Angeles, California and Montgomery, Alabama. Her connection to the United Arab Emirates complicates the legal process.

She formerly worked as the CEO of Bellum Entertainment LLC. Her professional background lent an air of legitimacy to her claims. This helped facilitate the alleged complex financial fraud.

The FBI is actively soliciting tips from the public. They urge anyone with information to contact their local field office. Her profile remains prominently featured on the bureau’s most wanted list.

The case of the fake airline heiress underscores the sophistication of modern financial crime. Mary Carole McDonnell remains a wanted fugitive as the international search continues.