CEO Accused of Operating Ponzi Scheme

The CEO of an Orlando-based cryptocurrency company and former candidate for the Orange County commission faces allegations of running a Ponzi scheme that deceived investors out of at least $328 million, federal prosecutors announced on Tuesday.

Arrest Details

Christopher Alexander Delgado, 34, from Apopka, was arrested on charges of wire fraud and money laundering, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice. He is the founder, president, and CEO of Goliath Ventures, a blockchain company located in downtown Orlando.

Philanthropic Image

Delgado was recognized in Central Florida for his charitable efforts. Court records reveal that one victim involved in the scheme trusted Goliath’s legitimacy due to Delgado’s public engagement with charities and community events.

Operation of the Scheme

Prosecutors allege that Delgado conducted the scheme from January 2023 to January 2026, persuading victims to invest large amounts of money under false guarantees of monthly returns from cryptocurrency “liquidity pools.” This solicitation involved personal referrals, marketing materials, upscale events, and sponsorships to validate Goliath’s credibility.

Misuse of Funds

Federal prosecutors claim that while Goliath fraudulently secured over $328 million from investors, only about $1 million was actually invested in liquidity pools. Instead, the majority of the funds were diverted to pay earlier investors, cover requests for principal returns, and fund extravagant company gatherings and personal expenses, including luxury travel and real estate purchases worth between $1.15 million and $8.5 million.

Investor Manipulation

To conceal the operation, Delgado and his accomplices allegedly provided fake statements about investments. As late as 2025, when investors sought to withdraw funds, Goliath would delay payments and restrict access to investment information, according to the records.

Past Political Aspirations

Delgado also ventured into politics, previously running for a seat on the Orange County Board of Commissioners in 2022, though he lost the election. He reportedly promised on his campaign website to act in the best interests of his community.