Ian Bick's Ponzi Scheme: High School Entrepreneur Turns Scammer

Ian Bick, a suburban high school student, started his entrepreneurial journey at 13 by selling soda and candy. He later ventured into event planning for which he charged admission and made a profit. However, things took a dark turn when he began soliciting investors for an eBay business with false promises of profits from his events. Gradually, he scammed classmates, parents, and friends, defrauding them of nearly $500,000. After being charged with wire fraud and money laundering, Bick pleaded not guilty but was later found guilty and convicted. His bail conditions were violated, and his entertainment license was suspended due to safety issues. The sentencing hearing suggested a significant term of imprisonment for deterrence purposes.