ANNAPOLIS, MD — Patrick Britton-Harr, a 43-year-old businessman, was convicted Thursday in a $15 million fraud scheme tied to a private jet club.
The Annapolis man was found guilty on six counts of wire fraud, each carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
Britton-Harr owned and operated the AeroVanti private air club that gave members access to charter flights on private jets.
Through the club, Britton-Harr falsely promised discounted flight service to "Top Gun" members in exchange for $150,000 that would be used to buy planes. At the time, Britton-Harr said he would keep the funds safe by delivering the aircraft titles to escrow.
In total, the members collectively handed over $15 million for the purchase of five planes. However, the funds were instead used to buy yachts, jewelry, and cover his personal living expenses.
One of those expenses included a rental home in Tampa that cost $10,000 per month.
Findings presented at trial revealed Britton-Harr tried to conceal the misappropriated funds through a $1.5 million loan used to buy one of the planes he claimed to have already obtained.
"This conviction sends a strong message that if you scam and defraud others, we’re coming after you with the full weight of the law," said Kelly Hayes, who serves as the U.S. attorney for the District of Maryland. "We will always seek justice for victims."
A sentencing date for Britton-Harr has not yet been set. He is also facing a separate trial slated for October related to health care fraud and money laundering.
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