A Mission Viejo man, Rodger Brownson, age 60, pleaded guilty in Florida last week in an investment scam involving virtual reality gaming technology. He and seven other defendants were involved in a company, 3001 AD LLC, which collected over $18 million from about 600 investors nationwide.
According to documents filed in the case, 3001 AD and its affiliates operated as a virtual reality video gaming company that developed, marketed, and sold high-tech video game products from about 1999 through mid-2008. Initially, 3001 AD and its affiliates operated “Beta Zones,” which were virtual reality video game centers installed in popular theme parks. In 2004, 3001 AD and its affiliates began touting the Trimersion First Person Shooter Video Game Accessory as an in-home accessory that allowed players to immerse themselves in video games played on common, commercially available video game consoles.
The announcement today by the U.S. Attorney and FBI said investors’ money was not used to create gaming equipment, as represented, but was instead used to pay undisclosed commissions and personal expenses.
The judge is scheduled to set sentence on February 12 for one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Sentencing guidelines provide for up to 20 years in prison plus possible fines and restitution.
