Fake Heiress Accused of Scamming Banks Out of Nearly $30 Million as FBI Launches Search

A woman accused of posing as an heiress to a wealthy American aviation family is now among the FBI’s most wanted fraud suspects. Authorities allege that Mary Carole McDonnell used claims of access to an $80 million trust to obtain millions of dollars from banks and other financial institutions.

McDonnell, 75, is wanted on federal charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. According to the FBI, the alleged scheme took place between July 2017 and May 2018 in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, California.

The alleged $80 million inheritance

Investigators allege that McDonnell presented herself as an heir to the McDonnell Aircraft family and claimed she would eventually gain access to a secret trust worth approximately $80 million.

According to federal authorities, the claims helped her allegedly obtain about $14.7 million from one California bank. The FBI also alleges that she defrauded other financial institutions of more than $15 million, bringing the total alleged losses to nearly $30 million.

Authorities say the money was obtained through a scheme designed to deceive financial institutions. McDonnell has been charged in connection with the allegations, but the charges are not proof of guilt.

A warrant issued years ago

A federal arrest warrant was issued for McDonnell in December 2018. Despite the passage of several years, authorities are still seeking her arrest.

The FBI announced on October 14, 2026, that McDonnell had been added to its Most Wanted Fraudsters list. Investigators believe she may currently be living in Dubai, although her whereabouts have not been publicly confirmed.

Authorities say she has used several names, including variations of Mary Carole McDonnell and Mary Carroll. Investigators also caution that her appearance may have changed over the years.

FBI offers reward for information

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to McDonnell’s arrest and conviction. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the FBI or submit a tip through official channels.

The case highlights how alleged financial fraud can involve elaborate claims about wealth, inheritance and access to money. For investigators, locating McDonnell is an important step toward bringing the case before the court.

Until the allegations are resolved through the legal process, McDonnell remains a suspect charged with federal offenses, rather than someone whose guilt has been established at trial.

Source: PEOPLE