Mary Carole McDonnell, a former television producer, is wanted by the FBI for allegedly defrauding financial institutions and individuals of millions.

Mary Carole McDonnell, a 74-year-old former television producer, is currently on the FBI’s Most Wanted list for allegedly orchestrating a multi-million dollar fraud scheme. McDonnell, who previously ran the production company Bellum Entertainment, is accused of swindling financial institutions out of approximately $30 million. She reportedly fled the country with her husband after the alleged crimes were uncovered.

The Banc of California Loan

In 2018, McDonnell secured a $15 million bridge loan from Banc of California by claiming to be an heir to the McDonnell Douglas fortune and presenting falsified financial documents. She claimed a net worth of $77 million, including a $1 million collection of jewelry and art. Within six weeks of receiving the loan, she withdrew $14,660,255.09. Bank officials later discovered that the accounts she claimed to hold at other institutions were nonexistent.

Impact on Employees and Family

Beyond corporate lenders, McDonnell’s alleged actions affected her own family and staff. She reportedly forged her sons' signatures on loans that left them responsible for nearly $3 million in debt. Additionally, dozens of former employees and freelance workers at her production company, Bellum Entertainment, have claimed they were never paid for their work. Friends of McDonnell also allege she solicited hundreds of thousands of dollars from them.

Background in Television

McDonnell built a career in television, eventually serving as a vice president at the broadcaster Raycom before launching Bellum Entertainment in 2003. Her company produced various programs, including true-crime series such as 'Bizarre Murders' and 'I Married a Murderer.' While the company appeared successful, with a staff of over 50 and global distribution, employees began reporting unpaid wages as early as 2016.