Chris Martin Allegedly Engaged in Financial Elder Abuse

Chris Martin (CRD# 4179127[1]), a broker registered with Centaurus Financial, engaged in unfair business practices and financial elder abuse, according to a recent investor dispute. MDF Law is investigating the Apple Valley, California financial professional, who does business as Archangel Financial, for similar conduct. If you have concerns about investments in your accounts, contact us for a free consultation. 

To learn more about the allegations against Mr. Martin, continue reading this post. The information below is sourced from his BrokerCheck profile, a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority record accessed on October 8, 2024. 

FINRA Recommends Disciplinary Action

On September 20, 2024, FINRA disclosed its preliminary determination to recommend disciplinary action against Mr. Martin. According to a disclosure on his BrokerCheck record, the action would allege that he violated FINRA rules by participating in private securities transactions with providing prior written notice to, or receiving written approval from, his member firm. FINRA’s investigation into his alleged conduct is still pending.

Pending Dispute Alleges Elder Abuse

On August 21, 2024, an investor lodged a dispute involving Mr. Martin. The dispute alleges that he participated in several forms of misconduct while selling shares in a private placement away from his firm. Specifically, it alleges that he engaged in unfair business practices, made untrue statements, committed fraud, and misrepresented material information. It also alleges that he committed financial elder abuse[2], breached his fiduciary duty, and engaged in negligence. The dispute, which is still pending, seeks unspecified damages estimated to potentially exceed $5,000. 

Chris Martin Denies Allegations

Mr. Martin issued a statement regarding the allegations in the pending dispute. The statement, found on his BrokerCheck record, describes the allegations as “patently false” and notes that he intends to “rigorously” defend himself against them. “At no time did I provide any untrue statements or misrepresentations to the Claimants, nor did I act as their financial advisor or owe them any fiduciary duty as a financial advisor,” he asserts. “Their investments were made in a separate company in which I was an investor and officer, with no connection to any advisory role.”

What Is Archangel Financial Services?

As Mr. Martin’s BrokerCheck record discloses, he does business under the brand Archangel Financial Services. His profile[3] on that firm’s website describes his decades of experience as a financial professional and outlines his professional philosophy. “Chris believes financial success and independence are achievable for those who make it a priority, plan, and are willing to work for it,” it reads. “The greatest satisfaction as a financial planner comes from working with clients to develop a financial plan and showing them their financial goals are within reach.”

FINRA: Centaurus Broker Registered in Apple Valley, California

Chris Martin launched his career as a broker in 2000. That year, he registered with TransAmerica Financial Resources’ office in Los Angeles, California. He went on to work at firms including InterSecurities and Liberty Group before joining Centaurus Financial in 2006. He has remained at the firm since, based at its office in Apple Valley, California. With 24 years of experience as a broker, he has completed six industry exams, including the Series 24 and the Series 7. 

Investment Complaints? Chat with a Lawyer for Free

Have you lost money investing with Chris Martin? You may have recovery options. The seasoned investor advocates at MDF Law have proven records of experience, securing substantial recoveries for the victims of broker fraud. We take cases on a contingency basis, meaning our clients only pay a fee if they win their case. Call 800-767-8040 today for a free consultation with our team.