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Debra Mae Carter, a Texas woman, was sentenced to life in prison for her involvement in a Ponzi scheme orchestrated by former Christian radio host William Neil “Doc” Gallagher. Gallagher was sentenced to three life sentences and an additional 30 years in prison for defrauding investors, including many elderly clients, out of over $31 million through his investment business, the Gallagher Financial Group.

Carter, Gallagher’s mistress, was found guilty of money laundering for her role in ensuring the money was not recovered by victims. Prosecutors revealed that Carter and Gallagher planned to retire together on a ranch with the stolen funds. Carter laundered much of the ill-gotten money through rental homes, land, and fake charities, leading authorities to seize about $200,000 in gold and silver from her.

During the sentencing hearing, victims shared the devastating impact of losing their investments, with one victim, Brenda Wilkerson, now 84, losing money she and her late husband had inherited and invested with Gallagher. Wilkerson expressed that if she had the money now, she could have paid off her mortgage, but instead, she will be making payments until she dies.

Prosecutors condemned Carter, describing her as a liar and a blight on society for her actions. They emphasized the detrimental effects of her and Gallagher’s scheme on over 170 victims, most of whom were elderly and retired, highlighting the importance of holding financial criminals accountable for their actions.

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