In April 2017, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) reached an agreement with Serofim Muroff to pay back millions of dollars which he siphoned off from investors he attracted through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. His companies Blackhawk Manager and ISR capital, operating in Boise, Idaho, used the EB-5 VISA program to raise over $140.5 million for a variety of projects including real estate development and gold mining ventures.

However, Muroff diverted over $5 million to personal expenses instead of job creating enterprises, which he used to invest in a zip line operation, purchased two houses, and several expensive automobiles.

Without admitting to the SEC’s allegations, Muroff, his companies, and his administrative assistant, Debra Riddle, agreed to pay disgorgement of more than $5 million plus interest as well as a $2 million penalty.