Authorities: area man duped 60 investors, used funds to buy luxury cars

TAMPA — Federal authorities have charged Hillsborough County resident Steven Brickner with investment fraud, alleging he duped more than 60 retail investors out of some $5.5 million through purported investments in marijuana-related companies Brickner controlled.

Brickner, of Lithia, agreed to a judgment that requires him to pay back the victims of his alleged fraud, with prejudgment interest and penalties in amounts to be determined by the court, according to a statement from the Securities and Exchange commission. The settlement, in which Brickner isn’t required to admit or deny the allegations of the SEC's complaint, is subject to court approval, the release adds.