Posted: Sep 28, 2011 4:11 PM by Irina Cates (KPAX News)
Updated: Sep 29, 2011 6:26 AM
HAMILTON- A pair of Hamilton pastors are facing six felony charges in relation to an investment fraud. Harris Himes and James "Jeb" Bryant's charges include theft and fraudulent practices.
Prosecutors say in December on 2007 a victim received notice he would inherit a large sum of money. He discussed this with Himes and told him he wanted to put the money into a risk-free investment to allow him to do his ministry work full time.
Himes told the victim he and Bryant were partners in Duratherm Building Systems (DBS) which manufactures structural insulated panels. He told the victim if he invests in the company, he would receive a healthy return. The defendants also promised to give him a share in the company and a job there.
The two asked the victim for $150,000 to buy a machine for their company. The victim wired them the money and eventually the defendants stopped returning his calls.
A Ravalli County district judge issued arrest warrants for Himes and Bryant.
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