Syndicated radio talk show personality Warren Ballentine let it be known to his fans yesterday that he was involved in some serious legal struggles. For several weeks on his daily broadcast Warren would ask his fans to pray for him. He said, " people are telling lies on me in an effort of ruining my career." Though he never gave details of exactly what those struggles were it was obvious to a casual listener that Warren was not the same. Warren is known on the air as "The People's Attorney." He gained notoriety by answering legal questions that readers would submit to Jet Magazine. He has been named by Ebony Magazine as one of thee 100 most influential Blacks in America.
According to the indictment handed down by the Justice Department, Warren's troubles began in December of 2004 through May of 2006. During this time it is alleged that he along with co-conspirators engaged in mortgage fraud schemes which amassed approximately 10 million dollars. The schemes according to the indictment involved mail fraud, wire fraud and submitting fraudulent documents to HUD and other lending institutions to obtain owner occupied mortgages. The indictment alleges that the buyers whom were represented by the seasoned attorney, did not qualify for the loans nor were they the occupants of the properties. These properties were scattered throughout the city of Chicago area and surrounding counties.
If convicted of the charges Warren faces 30 years for each of the eight counts he is facing. He would also be required to repay the nearly $10 million he supposedly accumulated. Warren posted on Facebook that he merely represented the buyers at closing and was only compensated a fee for services rendered at closing. The court is at liberty to impose a $1 million fine, plus twice the amount of the gains or the dollar amount of the losses which ever is greater. Ballentine is scheduled to be arraigned about 9:30 a.m. Feb. 5 before U.S. District Judge Matthew Kennelly.
In addition to being a radio personality Warren Ballentine is also a partner in the Debt Stoppers Law Firm. He often encourages his listeners to get a debt analysis and if possible file bankruptcy in order to get a fresh start. "When the dollar is worthless you don't want to be in debt" was a constant thread that ran in every broadcast. "Buy some gold and I don't mean gold chains" was his advice to listeners on yesterday.
Though Warren at age 41 has never mentioned being married, he mentioned his daughter on yesterday's broadcast. A list of who's who in entertainment and politics are often guest on his program including Barack Obama. Warren has made a name for himself by keynote speaking and appearances on CNN and FOX News.
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