A Virginia man was charged last week for his role in a “Ponzi” pyramid scheme that authorities say resulted in millions of dollars lost for those who invested with him.

Claiming impressive annual return rates of up to 22 percent, John Donnelly of Albermarle County had in fact conducted virtually no actual trading since 2002, according to court documents. Instead, Donnelly is alleged to have been paying off false dividends to older investors with money from his newer clients to maintain a legitimate front.

The recent economic crisis has uncovered dozen of similar cases, including the widely-publicized downfall of Wall Street trader Bernard Madoff, as investors attempt to withdraw their money in large amounts.

If you or someone you know has been charged with investment fraud or similar crimes, contact the experienced Appleton federal crime lawyers of Kohler & Hart, LLP at 888-565-7597 to explore your options.