Michael Casey wanted by FBI in alleged $19 million investment fraud scheme

South Fla. lawyer failed to show up for April court date

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – A South Florida lawyer indicted with others in an alleged $19 million investment fraud scheme is missing and should be considered armed and dangerous, the FBI said.

An FBI wanted poster said Michael Casey, 67, failed to show up to an April 29 federal court hearing and hasn't been heard from since.

Casey has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and fraud charges stemming from a September 2012 indictment.

A judge issued a warrant for Casey's arrest.

"Mr Casey, who fled in the midst of his court proceedings, is known to have had access to a weapon," FBI spokesman Michael Leverock said in a statement to Local 10 when asked why Casey is considered armed and dangerous.

Authorities said Casey's company, Commodities Online LLC, promised big returns on commodities contracts, but there were no profits, with older investors being paid with money from newer ones.

The Fort Lauderdale company was shut down by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Hundreds of investors around the world were victimized.