Creator of Fake Website Selling Prayers was Forced to Pay Back over $7 Million to Customers
The creator of a fake prayer website, which sold prayers to
customers for payment, has been forced to pay restitution of up to $7.5 million
to customers he swindled.
Christian Today reports that Benjamin Rogovy, from Seattle,
created the for-profit company Christian Prayer Center (CPC) which sold prayers
to 125,000 customers for $9-$35 per prayer.
Rogovy created a fake pastor named John Carlson who
allegedly ran the website. Rogovy even created a LinkedIn profile for Carlson,
describing him as “Senior Pastor, Christian Prayer Center, January
2009-present.”
Rogovy also used the name Eric Johnston as a supposed leader
of the company.
Rogovy is being forced to pay back all the money he took
under false pretenses to the victims of the scam.
"I believe in the power of prayer," said Attorney
General BobFerguson, when speaking of Rogovy’s scheme and his conviction.
"What I do not believe in and what I will not tolerate is unlawful
business that prey upon people – taking advantage of their faith or their need
for help – in order to make a quick buck."
The Washington State Attorney General’s office has confirmed
that neither Carlson nor Johnston are real people.
"We thank you for all the prayers, and we cherish the
opportunity to have created a place where Christians could meet to support each
other," said a message on the website which is now shut down.
Those who purchased prayers from CPC between July 1, 2011
and June 30, 2015 are able to receive a full refund and can file a complaint with
the Washington State Attorney General’s office until June 11, 2016.
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