NJ Man Allegedly Scams Millions, Hits FBI Most Wanted List
FBI Adds Alleged $650 Million Scammer to "Most Wanted Fraudsters" List
What Happened?
The FBI has put a man named Rey Grabato II on their Most Wanted Fraudsters list. This is a special list for the biggest financial criminals the FBI is trying to catch. He’s only the second person ever added to this new list.
Who Is Rey Grabato II?
Important Point: Grabato was the president and owner of a company called National Realty Investment Advisors. He told people his company helped them invest in real estate (buildings and land) to make money.
What Is He Accused Of Doing?
Between February 2018 and January 2022, the FBI says Grabato ran a huge scam:
| What He Did | The Details |
|---|---|
| Lied to investors | He said his investment fund was worth way more than it really was |
| Tricked 2,000 people | Including hundreds in New Jersey |
| Stole over $650 million | That’s six hundred fifty million dollars — a massive amount! |
| Tried to cheat the IRS | He also allegedly tried to avoid paying $26 million in taxes over 15 years |
What Crimes Is He Charged With?
A federal court in Newark, New Jersey issued an arrest warrant on October 12, 2022. He faces these serious charges:
- Securities fraud — Lying to people to get them to invest money
- Wire fraud — Using phones, emails, or the internet to run a scam
- Conspiracy to defraud the United States (tax) — Working with others to cheat the government out of tax money
Where Is He Now?
Important Point: The FBI says Grabato has ties to the Philippines and may be living there right now. That’s why he’s on the "Most Wanted" list — he’s hiding from the law.
How Can You Help?
The FBI is offering a $150,000 REWARD for information that leads to his arrest and conviction.
How to Submit a Tip (3 Easy Ways):
- Online: Go to tips.fbi.gov
- Phone: Call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
- Local FBI Office: Call FBI Newark at 973-792-3000
You can stay anonymous! You don’t have to give your name.
Summary
- Rey Grabato II is now on the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters list
- He allegedly scammed 2,000 investors out of $650+ million through his fake real estate investment company
- He also tried to dodge $26 million in taxes
- A federal warrant was issued in Newark, NJ on October 12, 2022
- He may be hiding in the Philippines
- $150,000 reward for tips leading to his capture
- You can help by calling, going online, or contacting the local FBI office
FAQ
What is the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters list?
It’s a special list the FBI created to highlight the worst financial criminals they’re hunting. Being on it means the FBI considers you a top priority to catch.
What is "securities fraud" in simple terms?
It’s when someone lies about investments to trick people into giving them money. Like saying "your money will double!" when they know it won’t.
How did he steal $650 million?
He lied about how much money his fund had, which let him buy ownership in real companies using fake numbers. Investors thought they were buying into something valuable — they weren’t.
Why does the FBI think he’s in the Philippines?
He has known connections there (family, friends, property, or past travel). Criminals often flee to countries where it’s harder for U.S. police to reach them.
What happens if I call with a tip?
The FBI will take your information seriously. You can stay anonymous, and if your tip helps catch him, you could get the $150,000 reward.
Remember: If something sounds too good to be true with investments — it probably is. Always research before you invest!