Former Trucking Owner Charged in $105M Investment Fraud Scheme
Federal prosecutors have charged former trucking business owner Kristopher Lunsford in an alleged semi-truck investment fraud scheme that collected more than $105 million from hundreds of investors nationwide.
Investors Promised Weekly Payments
Lunsford, 46, of Henderson, Nevada, formerly of Georgia, faces six counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. The indictment was announced in Tampa by U.S. Attorney Greg Kehoe following an investigation into activity that allegedly continued from December 2003 through May 2025.
According to prosecutors, Lunsford and others told investors they could purchase an interest in a semi-truck, typically for between $25,000 and $40,000. Investors were allegedly promised guaranteed weekly payments of approximately $1,000 to $1,250, which were represented as profits generated by the trucks’ operation.
Prosecutors Allege Ponzi-Style Payments
Rather than funding investor payments with trucking profits, prosecutors allege that Lunsford used approximately $75 million from newer investors to pay earlier participants. The indictment describes the operation as involving more than 500 victims across the country.
Prosecutors also allege that Lunsford used more than $25 million for personal enrichment. The alleged expenditures included real estate, sports cars, jewelry, luxury-brand merchandise, private charters, resorts, casinos and nightclubs.
Federal Charges and Arrest
Lunsford was arrested in Nevada and is charged in federal court with wire fraud and money laundering. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
