A Washington pastor allegedly told congregants God had chosen them to invest in his company-then accused questioning investors of being demonically possessed. Federal prosecutors say those claims formed part of a $13 million fraud scheme involving church members and other investors.
Cristian Popescu, 46, identified by authorities as the pastor of Passion for Christ in Kirkland, pleaded not guilty on October 13 to 10 counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering. His trial is scheduled for December 21, 2026.
According to prosecutors, Popescu promoted Bellevue-based Followone Inc. as a thriving technology business combining social networking with an online marketplace. He allegedly claimed it generated millions in revenue and was approaching a Nasdaq listing, while investigators say its supposed platform consisted of nonfunctional screens.
The indictment alleges that Popescu used his pastoral position to persuade congregants that investing would advance the church's mission. More than 30 investors allegedly supplied at least $13 million, with some encouraged to draw on retirement funds, home equity and savings intended for their children's education. Prosecutors say he promised investors they could withdraw their money whenever they wanted.
Behind the appearance of a successful business, authorities allege, millions moved into accounts belonging to Popescu and his family. Prosecutors say more than $4.5 million went to those accounts, while Popescu paid himself more than $1 million in wages between 2017 and 2024.
The alleged sales pitch also came with unusual secrecy. Prosecutors say investors were required to sign confidentiality agreements, communicate through encrypted services and switch off phones and smart devices during meetings. An investment totaling $1 million allegedly came with the prospect of a company board seat.
When investors sought repayment, Popescu allegedly said returning their money would disrupt an audit or the anticipated stock exchange listing. Those who challenged his explanations allegedly faced an angry spiritual accusation: that they were demonically possessed. The Christian Post reported that the church had not immediately responded to its request for comment and that his current leadership status was unclear.
Popescu was released on electronic monitoring over prosecutors' objections. The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating the case; the charges remain allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
