A Santa Barbara County investment advisor has been sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison for stealing millions from elderly clients.
52-year-old Julie Anne Darrah of Santa Maria embezzled roughly $2.25 million from clients at her investment firm, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Between 2016 and 2023, Darrah took control of her clients' assets and secretly moved the money into accounts she controlled, including her own. She spent the stolen funds on properties, luxury cars, and personal and business expenses.
By the time the fraud was uncovered, some victims couldn’t afford end-of-life care. Others were left in crisis. Darrah also hid the fraud from her employer– referred to as “Business Victim 1” in court documents– which lost more than $5 million.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil complaint against Darrah in 2023. She pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud in March.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office urges victims of financial fraud over the age of 60 or those who know someone affected to contact the Elder Fraud H
