Consumer Media Release

District Attorney Nola Tedesco Foulston is reminding consumers that promoting or participating in a pyramid promotional scheme is illegal.

A "pyramid promotional scheme" means any plan or operation by which a participant gives consideration (money) for the opportunity to receive compensation which is derived primarily from any person’s introduction of other persons into participation in the plan or operation rather than from the sale of goods, services or intangible property by the participant or other persons introduced into the plan or operation.

It is a criminal offense to participate in these schemes. It is illegal even if the money sent or received is termed a "gift." Often these schemes are referred to as "multi-level marketing schemes" in an attempt to make legal that which is illegal. Promoting or participation is still illegal.

Promoters and participants will be prosecuted. 

 

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