Local Ponzi Scheme Fugitives Caught in Arizona

Couple in hiding since conviction in 2000

The U.S. Marshals Service says an Illinois couple who fled a conviction for running a Ponzi scheme has been captured in a small town west of Phoenix, after a dozen years on the run.

The arrests of 65-year-old Nelson Grant Hallahan and his 54-year-old wife Janet Hallahan on Saturday came after they were featured on "America's Most Wanted'' the previous night. A tip led deputy marshals to the couple in the community of Tonopah.

They pleaded guilty in Illinois federal court to bank and mail fraud conspiracy charges and money laundering, but didn't show up for sentencing in early 2000.

The Hallahans lived in Peoria and targeted family, friends, and elderly victims by promising significant returns on investments. They used the millions they netted to live a lavish lifestyle.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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