Carl Erik Rinsch Netflix fraud: Filmmaker Carl Erik Rinsch faces charges of wire fraud and money laundering for allegedly stealing $11 million from Netflix meant for his unproduced series “White Horse.”
What Happened?
Netflix initially invested $44 million into Rinsch’s project in 2018 and 2019.
In March 2020, Rinsch requested an additional $11 million, claiming that the funds were insufficient to complete the performance.
According to the prosecution, Rinsch used the funds on production rather than on personal indulgences like:
- $3.78 million for antiques and furnishings
- $2.42 million for a Ferrari and Rolls-Royces; $652,00 for high-end apparel and watches
- legal costs associated with his divorce and Netflix litigation
- Cryptocurrency investments gone wrong
Series Cancellation and Fallout
Netflix, which had renamed the show “Conquest,” never received any completed episodes. By early 2021, the platform canceled the series. In 2024, an arbitrator awarded Netflix $8.8 million in damages.
Legal Consequences
Rinsch faces:
- One count of wire fraud
- One count of money laundering
- Five counts of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions
The case is being prosecuted by the Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit.
What’s Next?
With Rinsch’s arrest, the legal battle continues. Netflix declined to comment on the matter, while Rinsch’s legal representation remains unknown.
Source: NBC News
