A woman posing as an airline heiress has found herself on the FBI’s most wanted list for allegedly tricking banks out of nearly $30 million. Mary Carol McDonnell, 74, is accused of executing a fraud scheme across Los Angeles and Orange Counties between July 2017 and May 2018.
According to investigators, McDonnell claimed to be an heir to the defunct aerospace company McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Corporation, which is known for its commercial and military aircraft. She reportedly secured millions from a California bank by saying she would soon gain access to a hidden $80 million trust.
Reports suggest that McDonnell fraudulently acquired around $14.7 million from various banks, fully aware she had no intention of repaying the debts. It seems she utilized similar methods in other instances, potentially causing losses exceeding $15 million overall.
The FBI indicates that McDonnell was involved in a scheme that aimed to fraudulently obtain money, funds, and properties tied to the Bank of California. Her connections reportedly extend to Los Angeles, Montgomery in Alabama, and even the United Arab Emirates.
Interestingly, McDonnell had previously held the CEO position at Bellum Entertainment LLC, a Burbank-based television production company, from 2004 until 2017. The company, known for shows like “It Takes a Killer,” was under investigation in 2017 for failing to compensate a number of former employees.
McDonnell had allegedly informed her employees that they would not be receiving wages due to “serious bank fraud.” Her nephew, who served as vice president at Bellum for over ten years, stated he was unaware of any fraudulent activities but left the company with a $10,000 debt.
It’s believed that McDonnell has fled to Dubai. She is described as a Caucasian female, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing around 145 pounds, with blonde hair, blue eyes, and a noticeable scar on her right knee.
The FBI is urging anyone who might have information about McDonnell’s current location to reach out to their local FBI office or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
