For Immediate Release
September 3, 2025
 
WINTER PARK, Fla. – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Jerald Benjamin Clawson, 74, of Winter Park, on one count each of organized scheme to defraud and the unlawful use of unregistered securities. The investigation is a joint effort between FDLE, the Florida Office of Financial Regulation and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
 
FDLE’s investigation began in Oct. 2023 when agents received information that Clawson would solicit real estate investments through cash and bridge loans, and promised the victims a guaranteed return, which never happened.
 
The investigation revealed that several million dollars obtained by Clawson from the victims did not go to any legitimate investment but were, instead, used by Clawson to his personal benefit in this Ponzi scheme.
 
After FDLE Fort Myers agents obtained an arrest warrant for Clawson, he was taken into custody on Aug. 28 in Winter Park by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. He was subsequently transported to the Orange County Jail.
 
The case is being prosecuted by Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution.
 
The investigation remains active.
 
For Further Information Contact
FDLE Office of Public Information
Info@fdle.state.fl.us