Fake Veterinarian Admits to Taking Part in $4.7 Million Cattle Fraud
A man posing as a veterinarian in a $4.7 million cattle fraud scheme in Missouri has admitted to his involvement.
Robert D. Hawkins has consented that he aided Cameron J. Hager in defrauding more than 90 investors from at least 21 states in a $4.7 million cattle fraud scheme.
According to Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s Securities Division, Hawkins allegedly posed as a veterinarian on documents for the company, 5A Holdings LLC. Hager served as the owner of 5A Holdings and ran the scheme from July 17, 2015, to March 28, 2018.
As part of the indictment on Hager it is alleged he told investors he would buy cattle from farmers or ranchers who were financially distressed and unable to maintain their herds. Hager was to have a “seasoned veterinarian” examine the cattle and he would feed the animals until there was an optimum time to sell.
The “seasoned veterinarian” was Hawkins, but he never actually examined any cattle because none were ever purchased.
Hawkins is cooperating with authorities in any pending proceedings for the case. Per the consent order, Hawkins will pay $20,000 to the Investor Education and Protection Fund, with $10,000 suspended for 10 years so long he doesn’t violate the Missouri Securities Act or the terms of the order. He is also restrained from selling securities and barred from registering as an investment agent in Missouri.
More information about the case against Hager can be found below:
