Guilty plea in $380 million Ponzi scheme, feds say
A financial adviser in Georgia, Todd Burkhalter, has pleaded guilty in a Ponzi scheme that bilked more than 2,000 people out of $380 million, federal authorities say.
Ponzi Scheme
RadioShack buyers ran a Ponzi scheme, SEC alleges
The buyers of distressed brick-and-mortar companies like RadioShack and Modell's Sporting Goods, are accused of running a Ponzi scheme.
Retired IRS agent gets 12 years for scamming elderly California woman out of life savings
A retired IRS agent from Southern California has been sentenced to state prison after she was convicted of defrauding an elderly San Francisco Bay Area woman out of $1 million in life savings.
Bernie Madoff's victims to get additional $158 million in restitution
Nearly 25,000 of the victims in Madoff's Ponzi scheme will see restitution through the Madoff Victim Fund.
California man sentenced in cow manure Ponzi scheme
After his arrest, Ray Brewer claimed he saved several soldiers from a fire while serving in the Navy, but later admitted, "these were both lies meant to curry favor with law enforcement."
2/9: Red and Blue
George Santos' work for firm accused of Ponzi scheme drew scrutiny; 2024 GOP presidential field begins to take shape.
Investigating Rep. George Santos' past
A new CBS Reports documentary explores Congressman George Santos' history of lies and his past involvement in a company accused in an alleged Ponzi scheme. CBS News political correspondent Caitlin Huey-Burns discusses "Campaign of Deceit: The Election of George Santos" with Anne-Marie Green and Seth Doane.
2009: The man who knew
In 2009, 60 Minutes interviewed Madoff Ponzi scheme whistleblower Harry Markopolos, who said he alerted the Securities and Exchange Commission of Madoff's fraud starting in 2000.
Bernie Madoff's sister and her husband dead in apparent murder-suicide
They were found unresponsive with gunshot wounds in their residence, police say. Madoff wiped out people's fortunes and ruined charities with a massive Ponzi scheme.
Christian radio host gets 3 life prison terms for bilking listeners
"He ruthlessly stole from his clients who trusted him for almost a decade," said the chief of the Tarrant County DA's Elder Financial Fraud team.
The history behind Bobby Bonilla Day
The Mets are sitting atop National League East and enjoying a good return so far on the team's $196 million payroll. But included in that figure is nearly $1.2 million for a player that hasn't stepped to the plate in more than 20 years, and one the team will continue to pay for another 14 years. Here's more on the now-infamous arrangement between an athlete and an owner, and the most notorious Ponzi scheme in history.
Bernie Madoff: How he pulled it off
On April 14, 2021, Bernard Madoff, who burned thousands of investors through an epic Ponzi scheme, died in prison while serving a 150-year prison sentence. Correspondent Jim Axelrod talks with journalist Jim Campbell, author of "Madoff Talks," who maintained a years-long correspondence with the disgraced investor and his family, to learn exactly how Madoff pulled off the largest financial fraud in Wall Street history.
Bernie Madoff: How he pulled it off
Journalist Jim Campbell, author of "Madoff Talks," maintained a years-long correspondence with the disgraced investor to learn exactly how Madoff pulled off the biggest fraud in American financial history.
Book excerpt: "Madoff Talks" by Jim Campbell
The journalist's new book features exclusive interviews with the disgraced investor who built a Ponzi scheme that grew into the largest financial fraud in Wall Street history.
Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff dies in prison at 82
Bernie Madoff, the mastermind of the largest Ponzi scheme in history, died in prison at age 82. He suffered from kidney disease in recent years.
Federal prosecutors allege Shkreli lied and stole to keep his other companies afloat
Pharmaceutical CEO Martin Shkreli who was accused of price gouging is out on bail after his arrest Thursday on unrelated securities fraud charges. Federal prosecutors allege Shkreli lied and stole to keep his other companies afloat. He was already called a symbol of corporate greed after his drug company raised the price of a medicine by more than 5,000 percent. Anthony Mason reports.
Martin Shkreli, the pharmaceutical company CEO who caused a public uproar after drastically raising the price of a life-saving prescription drug, was arrested on Thursday
Martin Shkreli, the pharmaceutical company CEO who caused a public uproar after drastically raising the price of a life-saving prescription drug, was arrested on Thursday. Federal prosecutors accuse Shkreli of running a Ponzi-like scheme to pay off investors at his former hedge fund. Anthony Mason reports.
Stocks surged after the Labor Department announced that the U.S. economy added 211,000 jobs in November
Stocks surged after the Labor Department announced that the U.S. economy added 211,000 jobs in November. Also, the trustee of Bernie Madoff's firm began distributing more money to people swindled in Madoff's Ponzi scheme. Hena Daniels reports on the day's top MoneyWatch headlines.
A French company is showing off a self-driving shuttle bus at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas,
A French company is showing off a self-driving shuttle bus at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. It's the first driverless vehicle commercially available in the U.S. With a top speed of 12 miles an hour, the shuttle is intended for college campuses and airport parking lots. That story and more Moneywatch headlines from Wendy Gillette.
Bernie Madoff seeks early release due to end-stage renal disease
Without compassionate release, Madoff's sentence would not end until 2139.
Jeffrey Epstein once worked at firm behind massive Ponzi scheme
"I don't think there was anyone who worked for the company who didn't understand it was a fraud the whole time," a lawyer told CBS News
Bernie Madoff asks Trump for clemency
The perpetrator of the biggest fraud in history is seeking commutation of his 150-year prison sentence, which he is serving in North Carolina
Almanac: Schemer Charles Ponzi
The founding father of financial hijinks, who trapped his investors in a "musical chairs" of fraud, was born on March 3, 1882
Ponzi scheme suspect cast spells, paid $720K for prayers to thwart charges
Six-figure payments for prayers didn't spare Dawn Bennett from a 17-count indictment on fraud charges
Feds charge 3 men after busting $364M Ponzi scheme
Federal prosecutors say the accused ripped off hundreds while spending big on homes, cars and other luxury goods
Live
Tehran threatens to retaliate after U.S. attacks vital Iranian oil hub
President Trump's comments came shortly after he said that the U.S. military had conducted "one of the most power bombing raids" on a vital Iranian oil hub.
How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Hamas calls on Iran to stop "targeting neighboring countries"
Hamas called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighboring countries, while affirming Tehran's right to defend itself.
Man charged with selling stolen firearm used in Old Dominion shooting
The stolen gun used in the Old Dominion University was sold this week to the shooter for $100, according to a federal law enforcement affidavit.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills 4 people and wounds at least 15
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Pope Leo moves into papal residence eschewed by Pope Francis
His predecessor, Pope Francis, lived in a simple apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
New details emerge on attack at Michigan synagogue and suspect's history
The attacker rammed a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield and opened fire, but he was the only one killed, law enforcement officials said.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
U.S.
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FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Sinema admits romance with security guard as she fights ex-wife's lawsuit
The attorney for former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema says she shouldn't be subject to a lawsuit by the ex-wife of her former lover.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
Remains of sailor identified more than 8 decades after Pearl Harbor attack
U.S. Navy Seaman 1st Class Clyde C. McMeans, 26, was one of the 103 USS California crewmen killed during attacks on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
How a beloved resident has been embraced by his town for more than a half-century
Clinton, New Jersey, is known primarily for its old grist mill, its quaint downtown, and its historic resident, "Dave the Rave."
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Politics
More Politics
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
DOJ moves to drop charges against man who burned American flag outside White House
Jan Carey was facing two misdemeanor criminal counts in Washington, D.C., federal court.
HealthWatch
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A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
World
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Pope Leo moves into papal residence eschewed by Pope Francis
His predecessor, Pope Francis, lived in a simple apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills at least 6 people and wounds dozens
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Police chase wild boar wandering in mall with blowgun, riot shields
The wild boar sparked a police response that drew in officers and veterinarians equipped with a tranquilizer gun, shields and even a blowgun.
Hamas calls on Iran to stop "targeting neighboring countries"
Hamas called on Iran to refrain from targeting neighboring countries, while affirming Tehran's right to defend itself.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Jay Buchanan performs "Deep Swimming"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Deep Swimming."
Jay Buchanan performs "Sway"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Sway."
Jay Buchanan performs "True Black"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "True Black."
Technology
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Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
More Science
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Judge in Charlie Kirk murder case makes ruling on media access
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk.
FBI: Synagogue attacker died by suicide
The suspect in the Michigan synagogue attack died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the FBI said at a news conference on Friday. CBS News correspondent Ash-har Quraishi has the latest.
Officials give update on synagogue attack
Officials in Michigan gave an update about Thursday's synagogue car ramming attack that the FBI is investigating as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community." CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more.
New details from Virginia, Michigan attacks
The U.S. is on high alert after two separate domestic attacks on Thursday: A shooting at Old Dominion University, and a car ramming at a Michigan synagogue. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane has the latest details on the incidents.
Space
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Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Breakdown of U.S. strikes on Kharg Island
President Trump's announcement about strikes on Kharg Island has sparked more questions about the potential of U.S. military boots on the ground.
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
The Dish: Raoul's
Since Raoul's landed on Prince Street in New York's SoHo neighborhood 50 years ago, it's become one of the city's most prized bistros. "CBS Saturday Morning" goes behind the scenes to learn more about the story behind the legendary family business.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that might just become essentials in your everyday life. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.