10/05/2025

Teenage Fraud Steals More Than 650K From Dozens Of Investors

The Wealth Advisor

He claimed to be a full-time day trader and a Chartered Financial Analyst affiliated with a prominent wealth management firm—someone who could generate returns of 200% or more for investors. But the reality was far different. Hunter Haithcock was a teenager running a years-long fraud that ultimately stole more than $650,000 from dozens of investors, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Haithcock, now 24, pleaded guilty this week to one count of wire fraud and one count of investment advisor fraud. Together, the charges carry a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

For wealth advisors and registered investment firms, the case underscores the reputational risk and regulatory scrutiny that can arise when unlicensed individuals exploit the credibility of the advisory profession. It also highlights how easily clients—especially younger or less experienced investors—can fall prey to social media marketing and exaggerated claims of “guaranteed” profits.

The Scheme

According to prosecutors, Haithcock—who sometimes used the alias “Hunter Elliott”—began soliciting investors in September 2019. He told clients he worked under a licensed broker at a well-known firm and could trade on their behalf with “no risk” to principal. Authorities have not named the broker or the firm whose identity he misused.