Hollywood filmmaker Carl Rinsch has been accused of embezzling over $11 million from Netflix, using the money to buy luxury cars, expensive furniture, and cryptocurrency instead of completing a promised sci-fi series.
Federal prosecutors in the United States said Rinsch, known for directing the 2013 film 47 Ronin, was supposed to create a new Netflix series titled Conquest. However, instead of using the funds for production, he allegedly spent them on personal expenses.
The 47-year-old director was arrested this week and faces charges of wire fraud and money laundering. If convicted, he could spend several years in prison.
FBI Assistant Director Leslie Backschies stated, “Carl Rinsch allegedly stole more than $11 million from a prominent streaming platform to finance lavish purchases and personal investments instead of completing a promised television series.”
According to court documents, Rinsch had agreed to produce a sci-fi show about powerful clones banished to a walled area in Brazil. Netflix reportedly paid him $44 million between 2018 and 2019 to make the series.
Later, Rinsch asked for an additional $11 million, claiming it was needed to finish the project. Netflix approved the request, but instead of using the funds for production, he allegedly transferred the money into different accounts and spent it on luxury items.
Court records reveal that he purchased a Ferrari, five Rolls-Royces, expensive furniture, clothing, and invested in risky stocks and cryptocurrency. He also used some of the money to pay for his divorce and legal battles against Netflix.
The streaming giant has not officially commented on the case. However, reports suggest that Netflix had already been in a legal dispute with Rinsch over the failed project.
The FBI has vowed to take action against anyone trying to cheat businesses. “The FBI will continue to reel in any individual who seeks to defraud businesses,” Backschies added.
The case is ongoing, and Rinsch is expected to appear in court soon.
