Securities Lawyers Blog
The securities attorneys at Gana Weinstein LLP are currently investigating Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra Investment) broker Steven Crawford (Crawford). According to BrokerCheck, Crawford has been subject to four customer disputes, one of which is still pending. The majority of these disputes concern the unsuitable recommendation of alternative investments, including Variable Universal Life polices (VULs), variable annuities, and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).
Most recently, in April 2018, Crawford was subject to a customer complaint in which a customer alleged that in 2001, Crawford misrepresented a VUL contract by failing to disclose the fact that the premium payment was not fixed – and could substantially or materially change over time. In 2016, the premium rose and policy lapsed – resulting in customer losses. The customer has requested $622,903.05 in damages. This dispute is currently still pending,
In August 2017, a customer alleged that from June 2016 to August 2017, Crawford recommended the Allianz Index Advantage Variable Annuity to the customer which was unsuitable to the customer’s investment objectives.
In June 2011, a customer alleged that from August 2007 to March 2008, Crawford recommended an REIT investment that was an unsuitable investment to the customer. The customer had requested $9,500 in damages.
In addition, Crawford has been subject to bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is a potential sign that financial advisors are struggling with their finances. The Financial Industry Regulative Authority (FINRA) makes this information public so that investors can have a better sense of their brokers.