COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – A man facing federal charges in connection with a failed football stadium project at Allen University appeared in federal court Tuesday as prosecutors sought tighter restrictions on his pretrial release.
WIS INVESTIGATES: UNBUILT
Lamonica “Monti” Valrie is charged with wire fraud and money laundering in an alleged scheme that federal prosecutors say defrauded Allen University, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, and other victims of more than $6 million.
Judge modifies spending limits, adds business reporting rules
Federal prosecutors requested that the court restrict Valrie from spending more than $500 without pre-approval from pretrial services. The judge amended that request, setting the threshold for required approval at $1,500.
Prosecutors also asked that Valrie be required to report any outstanding real estate development negotiations, deals, or…
These frauds exploit emotional vulnerability and trust rather than technical weaknesses.
- Romance Scams: Scammers build long-term online relationships with victims, eventually fabricating a “crisis” (medical emergency, legal trouble, or travel costs) that requires the victim to send money.
- Pig Butchering: A hybrid scam where the criminal builds a romantic or platonic relationship to eventually “tutor” the victim in a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment.