Bartlesville Businesspeople Face Felony Charges

Two Washington County businesspeople were charged with multiple counts of felony conspiracy Monday. Court documents say the two may have ripped off more than 30 clients.

Attorneys say Larry Dearman would prey on widows, by getting them to invest in Marya Gray's businesses and then the two would pocket the cash.

Gray is charged with seven counts of conspiracy. Dearman is charged with 18 counts total, including conspiracy, embezzlement, and obtaining money by false pretense.

The SEC says Dearman and Gray raised at least $4.7 million through illegal schemes.

Former investors want their money back.

There are nearly two dozen lawsuits against Dearman and Gray in Washington and Osage Counties.

8/29/2013 Related Story: SEC Claims Former Bartlesville Investor Bilked Clients Out Of Millions