Michelle McPhee

Want more true crime? Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes of The Arsonist Next Door ad-free today and get instant access to over 50 other jaw-dropping true crime stories. Plus, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series on the first of every month. Search for The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts or head to getthebinge.com to subscribe today.

Want more true crime? Subscribe to The Binge to get all episodes of The Arsonist Next Door ad-free today and get instant access to over 50 other jaw-dropping true crime stories. Plus, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series on the first of every month. Search for The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts or head to getthebinge.com to subscribe today.

So Sarah came up with a deal for $125,000. She told George a little about the person they'd be lending money to.

So Sarah came up with a deal for $125,000. She told George a little about the person they'd be lending money to.

While they were working through the deal terms, Sarah introduced George to John McCabe. Sarah and John, that is.

While they were working through the deal terms, Sarah introduced George to John McCabe. Sarah and John, that is.

Why would Sarah have needed protection? From who? Kind of strange, right? George insisted on doing his due diligence.

Why would Sarah have needed protection? From who? Kind of strange, right? George insisted on doing his due diligence.

First, they met at Starra's office and George asked to see the collateral for the loans.

First, they met at Starra's office and George asked to see the collateral for the loans.

George took the pink slips so that they could drive around to the lots and verify that each of the signed slips corresponded to one of the cars in their possession. Honestly, I mean, a smart idea.

George took the pink slips so that they could drive around to the lots and verify that each of the signed slips corresponded to one of the cars in their possession. Honestly, I mean, a smart idea.

Then he took George to the marina to see the collateral for his loan, an F-44 Tiare yacht.

Then he took George to the marina to see the collateral for his loan, an F-44 Tiare yacht.

And next, they went back to Sarah's office.

And next, they went back to Sarah's office.

It seemed like loans were happening so fast and loose it was hard to keep track of who owed what to whom. It was like trying to play a shell game in the bottom of the ocean. And on the bottom of the ocean, there are, what else? A lot of hungry bottom feeders.

It seemed like loans were happening so fast and loose it was hard to keep track of who owed what to whom. It was like trying to play a shell game in the bottom of the ocean. And on the bottom of the ocean, there are, what else? A lot of hungry bottom feeders.

So it seemed like all the collateral checked out. And what was more, Sarah seemed looted.

So it seemed like all the collateral checked out. And what was more, Sarah seemed looted.

She had a 2019 Rolls Royce Dawn. It's an almost $400,000 car. And she was having it wrapped white on white with a navy blue soft top. It was kind of trashy, but also kind of gangster. Her Rolls was an advertisement that if you worked with Lady Mafia, you'd be rich too.

She had a 2019 Rolls Royce Dawn. It's an almost $400,000 car. And she was having it wrapped white on white with a navy blue soft top. It was kind of trashy, but also kind of gangster. Her Rolls was an advertisement that if you worked with Lady Mafia, you'd be rich too.

George just came off a day where he verified a half a dozen VINs on some supercars, toured a yacht, and eyeballed a bucketload of rocks and watches.

George just came off a day where he verified a half a dozen VINs on some supercars, toured a yacht, and eyeballed a bucketload of rocks and watches.

The rate George was promised was 36% a year. put that another way, imagine if you could wave a magic wand and make 11 grand in three months, not lifting a finger. And George was confused too. Who's on the other end of these loans? What kind of person can afford that much interest but is that cash poor?

The rate George was promised was 36% a year. put that another way, imagine if you could wave a magic wand and make 11 grand in three months, not lifting a finger. And George was confused too. Who's on the other end of these loans? What kind of person can afford that much interest but is that cash poor?

And this might not make sense to you and me, but George lived in the OC. He told me he knew somebody who said he was worth $100 million after doing a decade of hard money lending. Imagined. you took that 125,000 and invested it for a full year, by the end, you'd have almost 200 grand. In 10 years, by then you've made around $4 million. And why stop investing at 125K?

And this might not make sense to you and me, but George lived in the OC. He told me he knew somebody who said he was worth $100 million after doing a decade of hard money lending. Imagined. you took that 125,000 and invested it for a full year, by the end, you'd have almost 200 grand. In 10 years, by then you've made around $4 million. And why stop investing at 125K?

At that rate, which is better than almost anything else out there, why not pour in your whole savings account? What if you discovered the secret for getting not just comfortable, but filthy, stinking rich? George became more and more involved in Sarah's business. They were going out for lunch. Each time, Sarah was dropping a couple of hundos on the table for the bill.

At that rate, which is better than almost anything else out there, why not pour in your whole savings account? What if you discovered the secret for getting not just comfortable, but filthy, stinking rich? George became more and more involved in Sarah's business. They were going out for lunch. Each time, Sarah was dropping a couple of hundos on the table for the bill.

So George was doing his part, being an IT business guy and all.

So George was doing his part, being an IT business guy and all.

This online setup could take the whole operation to the next level, make their lone mafia legit. But George started hearing hints, just little whispers, that people were after Sarah.

This online setup could take the whole operation to the next level, make their lone mafia legit. But George started hearing hints, just little whispers, that people were after Sarah.

George got spooked, but not enough to quit. He was still on board with the idea of becoming the loan mafia of the OC. So he was still moving forward with his part of the operation, getting the business online.

George got spooked, but not enough to quit. He was still on board with the idea of becoming the loan mafia of the OC. So he was still moving forward with his part of the operation, getting the business online.

It's a fucking mess. He said she couldn't find the paperwork for a single loan.

It's a fucking mess. He said she couldn't find the paperwork for a single loan.

Sarah was living the dream she told me that she had wanted. Being the boss lady in charge, lady mafia. But it also looked to me like that territory came with a lot of riffraff. Pretenders, felons, and hucksters. Now that she was a hard money lender, desperate people would come to her for help. She'd negotiate hard. They'd have to kiss the fucking ring. She'd be a kingmaker. She'd be rich.

Sarah was living the dream she told me that she had wanted. Being the boss lady in charge, lady mafia. But it also looked to me like that territory came with a lot of riffraff. Pretenders, felons, and hucksters. Now that she was a hard money lender, desperate people would come to her for help. She'd negotiate hard. They'd have to kiss the fucking ring. She'd be a kingmaker. She'd be rich.

So how did that little piece of chicken scratch turn into a Rolls Royce? How exactly was Sarah able to run a financial business with such sloppy accounting? One of the ideas that's come up is the possibility that Sarah was never actually a lender at all. She was just taking investments, taking money. I've heard this from several people we've interviewed.

So how did that little piece of chicken scratch turn into a Rolls Royce? How exactly was Sarah able to run a financial business with such sloppy accounting? One of the ideas that's come up is the possibility that Sarah was never actually a lender at all. She was just taking investments, taking money. I've heard this from several people we've interviewed.

The idea is she was running a Ponzi scheme from the very beginning, using new investments to pay old ones.

The idea is she was running a Ponzi scheme from the very beginning, using new investments to pay old ones.

Here's our expert on hard money lending again, Derek Lewis. He's familiar with her story.

Here's our expert on hard money lending again, Derek Lewis. He's familiar with her story.

That's certainly what it looks like to me. I asked her about it.

That's certainly what it looks like to me. I asked her about it.

I told her receipts would be helpful. Still waiting on them. Later on in a text message, she claimed all the paperwork was on a computer that had been stolen. We pushed for anything that would prove her business. She'd message back with a text-only list of supposed bank transactions or old photos with people she claimed to have loaned money to.

I told her receipts would be helpful. Still waiting on them. Later on in a text message, she claimed all the paperwork was on a computer that had been stolen. We pushed for anything that would prove her business. She'd message back with a text-only list of supposed bank transactions or old photos with people she claimed to have loaned money to.

Sara gave us the names of a few people she said she loaned money to. A global investor in culture. Another dude with a crazy long rap sheet. We reached out to the name she gave us, but never got a response. I feel for her and the mess she got herself into. I think she's fearless, funny, a total character.

Sara gave us the names of a few people she said she loaned money to. A global investor in culture. Another dude with a crazy long rap sheet. We reached out to the name she gave us, but never got a response. I feel for her and the mess she got herself into. I think she's fearless, funny, a total character.

But at this point, I'm starting to think she's a compulsive liar, a loan shark with a license. George's filthy rich dream had turned into that massive pile of dog crap. And what was more, George realized it was highly unlikely he'd ever get his $125,000 investment back.

But at this point, I'm starting to think she's a compulsive liar, a loan shark with a license. George's filthy rich dream had turned into that massive pile of dog crap. And what was more, George realized it was highly unlikely he'd ever get his $125,000 investment back.

George decided on a strategy at first, stick close to Sarah, in hopes that he'd be the first in line to get his money back. But he wasn't the only investor Sarah wasn't paying back. And these other guys were just about fed up. They weren't going to play nice.

George decided on a strategy at first, stick close to Sarah, in hopes that he'd be the first in line to get his money back. But he wasn't the only investor Sarah wasn't paying back. And these other guys were just about fed up. They weren't going to play nice.

Her relationship with Dude John had begun to sour.

Her relationship with Dude John had begun to sour.

And George says that all of these guys who did not mean her well were watching her from across the street.

And George says that all of these guys who did not mean her well were watching her from across the street.

And what they saw was Sarah's life spiraling out of control.

And what they saw was Sarah's life spiraling out of control.

George saw this one video of Zara.

George saw this one video of Zara.

But was she ready for it? From Sony Music Entertainment, this is Lady Mafia. It's a story about going from lawyer to lawless, living high and blowing millions. I'm Michelle McPhee. This is episode four, Cut Up Into Little Pieces.

But was she ready for it? From Sony Music Entertainment, this is Lady Mafia. It's a story about going from lawyer to lawless, living high and blowing millions. I'm Michelle McPhee. This is episode four, Cut Up Into Little Pieces.

In this mix, George met another guy Sarah had fleeced.

In this mix, George met another guy Sarah had fleeced.

And these horrifically wealthy people, they had a different strategy with Sarah.

And these horrifically wealthy people, they had a different strategy with Sarah.

Next time on Lady Mafia, with threats pounding on Sarah's door.

Next time on Lady Mafia, with threats pounding on Sarah's door.

Sarah chose a Shangri-La that many have fallen for.

Sarah chose a Shangri-La that many have fallen for.

In the midst of a financial wreck, Sarah chose to follow the promise of easy money in Las Vegas.

In the midst of a financial wreck, Sarah chose to follow the promise of easy money in Las Vegas.

That's next time on Lady Mavio. Unlock all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to the Binge Podcast channel. Not only will you immediately unlock all episodes of this show, but you'll get binge access to an entire network of other great true crime and investigative podcasts, all ad-free. Plus, on the first of every month, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series.

That's next time on Lady Mavio. Unlock all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to the Binge Podcast channel. Not only will you immediately unlock all episodes of this show, but you'll get binge access to an entire network of other great true crime and investigative podcasts, all ad-free. Plus, on the first of every month, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series.

That's all episodes all at once. Search for The Binge on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page. Not on Apple? Head to getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. Lady Mafia is an original production of Sony Music Entertainment. It was hosted and reported by me, Michelle McPhee. Odelia Rubin is our lead producer and wrote this episode with a little help from me.

That's all episodes all at once. Search for The Binge on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page. Not on Apple? Head to getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. Lady Mafia is an original production of Sony Music Entertainment. It was hosted and reported by me, Michelle McPhee. Odelia Rubin is our lead producer and wrote this episode with a little help from me.

Catherine St. Louis is our story editor. Shara Morris and Jonathan Hirsch are our executive producers. Sound design and mixing by Scott Somerville. Theme and original music composed by Hans Dale Shee. We also use music from Epidemic Sound, Blue Dot Sessions, and APM. Our associate producer is Zoe Culkin. Our fact checker is Fendel Fulton. Our production manager is Tamika Valens-Kolasny.

Catherine St. Louis is our story editor. Shara Morris and Jonathan Hirsch are our executive producers. Sound design and mixing by Scott Somerville. Theme and original music composed by Hans Dale Shee. We also use music from Epidemic Sound, Blue Dot Sessions, and APM. Our associate producer is Zoe Culkin. Our fact checker is Fendel Fulton. Our production manager is Tamika Valens-Kolasny.

Special thanks to Steve Ackerman, Emily Rosick, Jamie Myers, and Allie Kiltz.

Special thanks to Steve Ackerman, Emily Rosick, Jamie Myers, and Allie Kiltz.

Here's what I know at this point. Sarah's life as Lady Mafia is off to a rocky start. To pin up some of that red string here, Sarah is in trouble because she couldn't repay the money she borrowed for the marijuana buildings. She secured an additional loan from a friend that she also couldn't pay back. She thinks the way to dig herself out of this hole is to become a hard money lender.

Here's what I know at this point. Sarah's life as Lady Mafia is off to a rocky start. To pin up some of that red string here, Sarah is in trouble because she couldn't repay the money she borrowed for the marijuana buildings. She secured an additional loan from a friend that she also couldn't pay back. She thinks the way to dig herself out of this hole is to become a hard money lender.

She'd seen Brian Quinn make money giving loans to cash poor rich guys. If she charged high interest, she might be able to generate some money fast. But if King Family Lending is ever going to make bank, she has to sell those marijuana buildings and get out from under her own debt. That's when Sarah told me a new man entered into this mess with a solution.

She'd seen Brian Quinn make money giving loans to cash poor rich guys. If she charged high interest, she might be able to generate some money fast. But if King Family Lending is ever going to make bank, she has to sell those marijuana buildings and get out from under her own debt. That's when Sarah told me a new man entered into this mess with a solution.

One more dude can solve all her problems, right?

One more dude can solve all her problems, right?

Brian Quinn introduces John as someone who might be interested in buying Sarah's buildings. They drive down to a dock in Brian's white Rolls Royce. Sarah's wearing white jeans and a t-shirt. You know, all very laid back. except for Bryant, who was wearing a Gucci shirt with his hair slicked back. But that's the uniform of the Junior Mafia, so you can't blame him.

Brian Quinn introduces John as someone who might be interested in buying Sarah's buildings. They drive down to a dock in Brian's white Rolls Royce. Sarah's wearing white jeans and a t-shirt. You know, all very laid back. except for Bryant, who was wearing a Gucci shirt with his hair slicked back. But that's the uniform of the Junior Mafia, so you can't blame him.

The Binge. Feed your true crime obsession. Remember what I said at the beginning of this story? Sarah King seemed to be speeding towards a collision. She's bobbing and weaving, in and out of traffic, searching for daylight. Well, at this point, the marijuana empire was stalled. But Sarah's mortgage on those two industrial buildings wasn't going anywhere.

The Binge. Feed your true crime obsession. Remember what I said at the beginning of this story? Sarah King seemed to be speeding towards a collision. She's bobbing and weaving, in and out of traffic, searching for daylight. Well, at this point, the marijuana empire was stalled. But Sarah's mortgage on those two industrial buildings wasn't going anywhere.

Meanwhile, John McCabe is dressed like he's about to go paddle boarding.

Meanwhile, John McCabe is dressed like he's about to go paddle boarding.

In my mind, John McCabe looks like the dude from the cult classic The Big Lebowski. Mid-50s. He's a tall, big guy and sometimes has a beard. Always lumbering around in shorts and slip-on shoes.

In my mind, John McCabe looks like the dude from the cult classic The Big Lebowski. Mid-50s. He's a tall, big guy and sometimes has a beard. Always lumbering around in shorts and slip-on shoes.

At first, John and his assistant give Sarah a business presentation. Sarah brings up the buildings that she needed to sell. And it turns out John is also in the marijuana biz.

At first, John and his assistant give Sarah a business presentation. Sarah brings up the buildings that she needed to sell. And it turns out John is also in the marijuana biz.

Let me tell you, I have tried everything to find this guy, John McCabe. His name comes up in this story over and over again. You're probably sensing a pattern. A lot of the people around Sarah have made themselves scarce in recent years. Sara said he once told her he was a pilot for Hawaiian Airlines. And I found a guy on LinkedIn who listed his job as a corporate pilot and reached out. Nothing.

Let me tell you, I have tried everything to find this guy, John McCabe. His name comes up in this story over and over again. You're probably sensing a pattern. A lot of the people around Sarah have made themselves scarce in recent years. Sara said he once told her he was a pilot for Hawaiian Airlines. And I found a guy on LinkedIn who listed his job as a corporate pilot and reached out. Nothing.

My producers ran a LexisNexis search and I called all his numbers. Nothing again. He has no social media presence. Couldn't find any arrest records.

My producers ran a LexisNexis search and I called all his numbers. Nothing again. He has no social media presence. Couldn't find any arrest records.

John seems to see an opportunity in Sarah, someone he can use.

John seems to see an opportunity in Sarah, someone he can use.

As she's telling me about this McCabe guy, I'm thinking, the Sarah I know likes to be the one calling the shots. She wants to believe she's in charge. But to me, she sounds like she's out of her league. Like she's the prey, not the predator.

As she's telling me about this McCabe guy, I'm thinking, the Sarah I know likes to be the one calling the shots. She wants to believe she's in charge. But to me, she sounds like she's out of her league. Like she's the prey, not the predator.

And soon enough, Sarah said she and John started working together.

And soon enough, Sarah said she and John started working together.

Like Brian Quinn before him, John is good at making connections with the guys Sarah's trying to get in with.

Like Brian Quinn before him, John is good at making connections with the guys Sarah's trying to get in with.

In short order, Sara said John's acting like King Family Lending is his too, trying to woo potential investors.

In short order, Sara said John's acting like King Family Lending is his too, trying to woo potential investors.

And you know, it works having a man there to sell them on it.

And you know, it works having a man there to sell them on it.

Maybe John is overstepping, but he also seems to be helping Sarah reel people in. There are two sides to a hard money lending business. Getting investors to give Sarah money so that they can make money. And the other side, giving out loans to men and women who needed money quick and don't want Citibank to ask a ton of questions.

Maybe John is overstepping, but he also seems to be helping Sarah reel people in. There are two sides to a hard money lending business. Getting investors to give Sarah money so that they can make money. And the other side, giving out loans to men and women who needed money quick and don't want Citibank to ask a ton of questions.

Sarah told me there was a special type who could and would pay 30% interest on a loan.

Sarah told me there was a special type who could and would pay 30% interest on a loan.

Yeah, it was a little weird, but they had the hard assets to back it up.

Yeah, it was a little weird, but they had the hard assets to back it up.

Because I can tell you, like, I don't know, I'm broke as shit, but I'm still not giving my credit card company 30%.

Because I can tell you, like, I don't know, I'm broke as shit, but I'm still not giving my credit card company 30%.

If Sarah was actually getting 30% interest on these loans, it was an insanely good business proposition. A little too good.

If Sarah was actually getting 30% interest on these loans, it was an insanely good business proposition. A little too good.

Sarah said she put all her trust in John McCabe.

Sarah said she put all her trust in John McCabe.

We later find out that John McCabe denies this. He says Sarah wasn't even a business associate of his. Sarah didn't seem to be taking careful note of where the money was coming from and where it was going. For someone who should have been dealing with hard facts, crunching numbers day in and day out, Sarah told countless stories about money and collateral just disappearing in a bad deal.

We later find out that John McCabe denies this. He says Sarah wasn't even a business associate of his. Sarah didn't seem to be taking careful note of where the money was coming from and where it was going. For someone who should have been dealing with hard facts, crunching numbers day in and day out, Sarah told countless stories about money and collateral just disappearing in a bad deal.

I'm not stupid, by the way. I get that this likely isn't the whole truth, but this is part of what's so puzzling to me about Sarah. I can't tell when Sarah's lying to me or lying to herself. Things were not going well for Lady Mafia, and John seemed to be creating more problems.

I'm not stupid, by the way. I get that this likely isn't the whole truth, but this is part of what's so puzzling to me about Sarah. I can't tell when Sarah's lying to me or lying to herself. Things were not going well for Lady Mafia, and John seemed to be creating more problems.

He hadn't even helped her sell the marijuana buildings, and it was looking like Sarah was on the verge of losing her parents' home. So when she was dead broke, Sarah told me she decided to make one last gamble.

He hadn't even helped her sell the marijuana buildings, and it was looking like Sarah was on the verge of losing her parents' home. So when she was dead broke, Sarah told me she decided to make one last gamble.

My jaw dropped when she told me this. So let me get this straight. She went from big money deals with fancy people to scraping her fake nails off a scratchy?

My jaw dropped when she told me this. So let me get this straight. She went from big money deals with fancy people to scraping her fake nails off a scratchy?

When a buyer eventually came through and purchased the buildings, Cyrus said John McCabe took the credit.

When a buyer eventually came through and purchased the buildings, Cyrus said John McCabe took the credit.

So, as of January of 2021, the pot buildings were finally off her plate, no more desperately trying to sell gummy bears at the country club, and the lending business Sarah had been launching with John McCabe's help was finally getting off the ground.

So, as of January of 2021, the pot buildings were finally off her plate, no more desperately trying to sell gummy bears at the country club, and the lending business Sarah had been launching with John McCabe's help was finally getting off the ground.

No LinkedIn, no Facebook. Our fact checker even tried a reverse image search for him with a photo Sarah sent, but nada. Deep into reporting this series, Sarah told us that she wasn't even sure that John McCabe was his real name. That was gutting. I had spent months looking for this guy. And now, only now, she was admitting that the name might be an alias. Then one Friday, my editor got a call.

No LinkedIn, no Facebook. Our fact checker even tried a reverse image search for him with a photo Sarah sent, but nada. Deep into reporting this series, Sarah told us that she wasn't even sure that John McCabe was his real name. That was gutting. I had spent months looking for this guy. And now, only now, she was admitting that the name might be an alias. Then one Friday, my editor got a call.

A man said, you've been trying to get in touch with me. We had. Even sent a certified letter to his last known address in Hawaii. At long last, John McCabe had called. The conversation was brief. That's when he denied even being an associate of Sarah King's. My editor wasn't deterred. She asked to send him a bunch of questions we had about his dealings with Sarah. He agreed.

A man said, you've been trying to get in touch with me. We had. Even sent a certified letter to his last known address in Hawaii. At long last, John McCabe had called. The conversation was brief. That's when he denied even being an associate of Sarah King's. My editor wasn't deterred. She asked to send him a bunch of questions we had about his dealings with Sarah. He agreed.

Only, we never heard from McCabe again. Instead, his criminal defense lawyer, a guy out of Irvine, California, called us to say that he had advised John McCabe to not comment at this time. It was frustrating, but I wasn't ready to throw in the towel. I needed to find someone else who'd met John McCabe, someone who'd worked with him.

Only, we never heard from McCabe again. Instead, his criminal defense lawyer, a guy out of Irvine, California, called us to say that he had advised John McCabe to not comment at this time. It was frustrating, but I wasn't ready to throw in the towel. I needed to find someone else who'd met John McCabe, someone who'd worked with him.

I needed to understand what was going on with Sarah's lending business. So I went hunting for one of the people who gave money to King Family Lending. If the story of King Family Lending sounds all over the place, yeah, you're not imagining things. Sarah told me time and time again that she was legit, that King Family Lending was legit, until John McCabe showed up.

I needed to understand what was going on with Sarah's lending business. So I went hunting for one of the people who gave money to King Family Lending. If the story of King Family Lending sounds all over the place, yeah, you're not imagining things. Sarah told me time and time again that she was legit, that King Family Lending was legit, until John McCabe showed up.

I finally got someone to talk with us, an investor of Sarah's, a man by the name of George Poulos.

I finally got someone to talk with us, an investor of Sarah's, a man by the name of George Poulos.

It feels like we need one of those walls with photos, pins, and string on it. You know, the ones in a detective TV show. A murder board. Except instead of a map of bodies and bloody crime scenes, we're going to track money. How it moves from a contract on a yacht to cash in a Chanel pocketbook to another contract in a glove box in a Ferrari.

It feels like we need one of those walls with photos, pins, and string on it. You know, the ones in a detective TV show. A murder board. Except instead of a map of bodies and bloody crime scenes, we're going to track money. How it moves from a contract on a yacht to cash in a Chanel pocketbook to another contract in a glove box in a Ferrari.

George wasn't pulling any punches.

George wasn't pulling any punches.

George is married, has two young kids, and used to run an IT business, but is now retired. Very comfortably, it seems. He lives in a wealthy, family-friendly neighborhood in the OC. He looks a little like Christian Bale in his wiry beard era. George first met Sarah in July 2021, around six months after the pot buildings were sold.

George is married, has two young kids, and used to run an IT business, but is now retired. Very comfortably, it seems. He lives in a wealthy, family-friendly neighborhood in the OC. He looks a little like Christian Bale in his wiry beard era. George first met Sarah in July 2021, around six months after the pot buildings were sold.

They met at a restaurant in Laguna Beach overlooking the ocean.

They met at a restaurant in Laguna Beach overlooking the ocean.

Hi everyone, I'm investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D'Ambra, and every week on my podcast, Park Predators, I take you into the heart of our world's most stunning locations to uncover what sinister crimes have unfolded in these serene settings.

Hi everyone, I'm investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D'Ambra, and every week on my podcast, Park Predators, I take you into the heart of our world's most stunning locations to uncover what sinister crimes have unfolded in these serene settings.

From unsolved murders to chilling disappearances, each Tuesday we dive deep into the details of cases that will leave you knowing sometimes the most beautiful places hide the darkest secrets. Listen to Park Predators now wherever you listen to podcasts.

From unsolved murders to chilling disappearances, each Tuesday we dive deep into the details of cases that will leave you knowing sometimes the most beautiful places hide the darkest secrets. Listen to Park Predators now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Hi everyone, I'm investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D'Ambra, and every week on my podcast, Park Predators, I take you into the heart of our world's most stunning locations to uncover what sinister crimes have unfolded in these serene settings.

Hi everyone, I'm investigative journalist and park enthusiast Delia D'Ambra, and every week on my podcast, Park Predators, I take you into the heart of our world's most stunning locations to uncover what sinister crimes have unfolded in these serene settings.

From unsolved murders to chilling disappearances, each Tuesday we dive deep into the details of cases that will leave you knowing sometimes the most beautiful places hide the darkest secrets. Listen to Park Predators now wherever you listen to podcasts.

From unsolved murders to chilling disappearances, each Tuesday we dive deep into the details of cases that will leave you knowing sometimes the most beautiful places hide the darkest secrets. Listen to Park Predators now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Seems to me Sarah did her fair share of day drinking too. She said most mornings they wouldn't talk. He'd head out to his office for a few hours and by lunchtime he'd be back in the villa. She'd prepare a charcuterie board with wine and tequila and beer for Brian, hang there for a bit, then hit the Pelican Hill bar.

Seems to me Sarah did her fair share of day drinking too. She said most mornings they wouldn't talk. He'd head out to his office for a few hours and by lunchtime he'd be back in the villa. She'd prepare a charcuterie board with wine and tequila and beer for Brian, hang there for a bit, then hit the Pelican Hill bar.

What seemed cute at first was now just messy. She'd apologize to everyone at the bar, tell them she was his sister. And she said that seemed to work most days. Her humiliation was a small price to pay for being on permanent vacations. At this point, she was still on the right side of legal. Soon she wouldn't be. She had a problem.

What seemed cute at first was now just messy. She'd apologize to everyone at the bar, tell them she was his sister. And she said that seemed to work most days. Her humiliation was a small price to pay for being on permanent vacations. At this point, she was still on the right side of legal. Soon she wouldn't be. She had a problem.

She might be living high right now off the coattails of Brian's success, but she wasn't profiting from any of that. And she certainly didn't have enough dough to invest like the guys who showed up to their investor parties. She needed to find a way to make big money. That's when it hit her. There was a way for her to make a lot of money.

She might be living high right now off the coattails of Brian's success, but she wasn't profiting from any of that. And she certainly didn't have enough dough to invest like the guys who showed up to their investor parties. She needed to find a way to make big money. That's when it hit her. There was a way for her to make a lot of money.

Doing a job that requires two things Sarah most definitely had. A law degree and discretion.

Doing a job that requires two things Sarah most definitely had. A law degree and discretion.

A fixer.

A fixer.

Remember Trump's lawyer, Michael Cohen, the man who tried to keep his affair with Stormy Daniels secret? That's a fixer.

Remember Trump's lawyer, Michael Cohen, the man who tried to keep his affair with Stormy Daniels secret? That's a fixer.

She told Brian that's what she wanted to do, and he helped her do it. He set Sarah up with clients at places like the Pelican Club and this ritzy yacht club called Balboa Bay.

She told Brian that's what she wanted to do, and he helped her do it. He set Sarah up with clients at places like the Pelican Club and this ritzy yacht club called Balboa Bay.

For the rich people who did hire Sarah, she did all kinds of jobs. Really weird requests sometimes, she said.

For the rich people who did hire Sarah, she did all kinds of jobs. Really weird requests sometimes, she said.

It sounded like a cross between a personal assistant and an enforcer.

It sounded like a cross between a personal assistant and an enforcer.

And it takes someone coming into their life to activate them, to show them the way. Fasara, that man was the one who introduced her to the world of hard money lending. The guy they gave all that money to. A man by the name of Brian Quinn. From Sony Music Entertainment, this is Lady Mafia. It's a story about going from lawyer to lawless, living high and blowing millions. I'm Michelle McPhee.

And it takes someone coming into their life to activate them, to show them the way. Fasara, that man was the one who introduced her to the world of hard money lending. The guy they gave all that money to. A man by the name of Brian Quinn. From Sony Music Entertainment, this is Lady Mafia. It's a story about going from lawyer to lawless, living high and blowing millions. I'm Michelle McPhee.

That work, she said, paid exceptionally well. She would have several clients at a time and would bill to the tune of $1,200 an hour. She said she was bringing in about 1.2 mil a year. she was finally bringing in the kind of money she wanted to be making.

That work, she said, paid exceptionally well. She would have several clients at a time and would bill to the tune of $1,200 an hour. She said she was bringing in about 1.2 mil a year. she was finally bringing in the kind of money she wanted to be making.

With fixing, Sarah had gone from making questionable investments to taking a full step off the straight and narrow path. And she knew it.

With fixing, Sarah had gone from making questionable investments to taking a full step off the straight and narrow path. And she knew it.

The money was good, but it wasn't exactly glamorous work.

The money was good, but it wasn't exactly glamorous work.

Sometimes, she said, she'd pay one of the strippers a bit extra just to give her a shoulder massage while she waited for her client to be done.

Sometimes, she said, she'd pay one of the strippers a bit extra just to give her a shoulder massage while she waited for her client to be done.

But she said these weren't just rich people paying her a lot of money. They were influential, too. Whatever Sarah did next, the business positioned her well for her next move, she thought.

But she said these weren't just rich people paying her a lot of money. They were influential, too. Whatever Sarah did next, the business positioned her well for her next move, she thought.

Sarah had 10 projects going on now at any one time. She was trying to build her own empire between learning about hard money lending to fixing to any other business opportunity that came her way. She was comfortable in chaotic situations and it proved to be quite useful. She was, you could say, her own luxury asset. But Sarah was hungry for more.

Sarah had 10 projects going on now at any one time. She was trying to build her own empire between learning about hard money lending to fixing to any other business opportunity that came her way. She was comfortable in chaotic situations and it proved to be quite useful. She was, you could say, her own luxury asset. But Sarah was hungry for more.

There's a reason money and vice make great bedfellows. Something that fascinates me about Zara, she doesn't just want money and power. I realize how corny it is to say this, but she also wanted love. She was always one spinning plate too many. And while things were unraveling with Gerard, she met someone. Oh boy, did she meet someone. It was an afternoon in May 2018 when it all started.

There's a reason money and vice make great bedfellows. Something that fascinates me about Zara, she doesn't just want money and power. I realize how corny it is to say this, but she also wanted love. She was always one spinning plate too many. And while things were unraveling with Gerard, she met someone. Oh boy, did she meet someone. It was an afternoon in May 2018 when it all started.

Sara was invited by Brian Quinn to a business meeting about a potential investment. It was at the Center Club in Costa Mesa, not far from Newport Beach. The place is now closed, but Yelp remembers it as a kind of spot that had white napkins, wood paneling, and thick cuts of steak. Like, you get a little slab of cake, and Chef decorates the plate with sauces like he's Jackson fucking Pollock.

Sara was invited by Brian Quinn to a business meeting about a potential investment. It was at the Center Club in Costa Mesa, not far from Newport Beach. The place is now closed, but Yelp remembers it as a kind of spot that had white napkins, wood paneling, and thick cuts of steak. Like, you get a little slab of cake, and Chef decorates the plate with sauces like he's Jackson fucking Pollock.

Episode 2, Luxury Asset.

Episode 2, Luxury Asset.

Let's go through this list because it's like felon, felon. I know. Felon, felon. Felon, felon, felon, felon.

Let's go through this list because it's like felon, felon. I know. Felon, felon. Felon, felon, felon, felon.

Okay, I got a little ahead of myself. Not everyone there was a felon, but the table was pretty stacked. Let me break this table down for you. Seat number one was Brian Quinn, Sarah's brother from another mother. At this point, he hadn't been indicted for anything yet. And seat number two was Joseph Medawar, who was already notorious in Hollywood.

Okay, I got a little ahead of myself. Not everyone there was a felon, but the table was pretty stacked. Let me break this table down for you. Seat number one was Brian Quinn, Sarah's brother from another mother. At this point, he hadn't been indicted for anything yet. And seat number two was Joseph Medawar, who was already notorious in Hollywood.

He defrauded people of millions to fund a fake television show that was supposedly about the Department of Homeland Security. He got actual senators to read his scripts. Then he pocketed the money that was supposed to be used to make the thing. By this lunch, Medawar was a convicted felon and had already served hard time.

He defrauded people of millions to fund a fake television show that was supposedly about the Department of Homeland Security. He got actual senators to read his scripts. Then he pocketed the money that was supposed to be used to make the thing. By this lunch, Medawar was a convicted felon and had already served hard time.

Then there's Sarah, who, well, for now, let's just say she's no angel. And her business partner and husband, Gerard, was there. So was a new guy, a man by the name of Cameron Pallavy, Prince Cameron Pallavy. He looks like a male model. Thick, dark hair, green eyes, chiseled, good looks. Look up the word smoldering and his picture's right there in the dictionary. And did you know he was royalty?

Then there's Sarah, who, well, for now, let's just say she's no angel. And her business partner and husband, Gerard, was there. So was a new guy, a man by the name of Cameron Pallavy, Prince Cameron Pallavy. He looks like a male model. Thick, dark hair, green eyes, chiseled, good looks. Look up the word smoldering and his picture's right there in the dictionary. And did you know he was royalty?

Did he talk about being a prince?

Did he talk about being a prince?

So Matawar was convincing Sarah that this prince was an investor in his real estate business.

So Matawar was convincing Sarah that this prince was an investor in his real estate business.

EBITDA, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Basically, they're talking about how profitable a business could be.

EBITDA, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Basically, they're talking about how profitable a business could be.

After the meeting, Sarah would go and crunch the numbers. They didn't add up. So Sarah called up the prince, asked him about the deal.

After the meeting, Sarah would go and crunch the numbers. They didn't add up. So Sarah called up the prince, asked him about the deal.

He didn't invest? Sarah had seen her fair share of scammy business opportunities at this point. What she couldn't quite figure out was this man, Cameron Polovey, smoking hot. a prince to the former Shah of Iran. Sarah's dad is from Iran. To meet a descendant of the Shah is a big, big deal. The Shah was supported by the U.S., but overthrown in 1979 and replaced by the Islamic Republic.

He didn't invest? Sarah had seen her fair share of scammy business opportunities at this point. What she couldn't quite figure out was this man, Cameron Polovey, smoking hot. a prince to the former Shah of Iran. Sarah's dad is from Iran. To meet a descendant of the Shah is a big, big deal. The Shah was supported by the U.S., but overthrown in 1979 and replaced by the Islamic Republic.

Cameron was the last Shah's grandnephew. The Pahlavi family has been living in exile from Iran since Cameron was five years old. So, what was the Shah's grandnephew doing at this country club pitch meeting? What he told Sarah was baffling. He said he was just lending the whole operation an air of credibility. Sarah was still married, but that didn't stop her from thinking about Cameron.

Cameron was the last Shah's grandnephew. The Pahlavi family has been living in exile from Iran since Cameron was five years old. So, what was the Shah's grandnephew doing at this country club pitch meeting? What he told Sarah was baffling. He said he was just lending the whole operation an air of credibility. Sarah was still married, but that didn't stop her from thinking about Cameron.

Who was this mysterious, tortilla-chip-eating prince? As Sarah left her homeless drawer, she called Cameron crying. And the two ended up getting together at a hotel lobby bar in Beverly Hills.

Who was this mysterious, tortilla-chip-eating prince? As Sarah left her homeless drawer, she called Cameron crying. And the two ended up getting together at a hotel lobby bar in Beverly Hills.

Was that the last dinner you ever paid for?

Was that the last dinner you ever paid for?

in the place which it seems to meet everybody, Fashion Island at the R&D Kitchen. It's very masculine, dark leather, old school Hollywood vibes, one of Sarah's favorites.

in the place which it seems to meet everybody, Fashion Island at the R&D Kitchen. It's very masculine, dark leather, old school Hollywood vibes, one of Sarah's favorites.

But Sarah wasn't worried about the tab. Sparks were flying at Jean-Georges in Beverly Hills.

But Sarah wasn't worried about the tab. Sparks were flying at Jean-Georges in Beverly Hills.

And soon, Sarah, the daughter of an Iranian immigrant, and Cameron, a descendant of the Shah, were an item. Next time on Lady Mafia. Sarah was dead set on keeping her new man, his good looks and pedigree. She wanted to help him, support him, and prove that she was enough.

And soon, Sarah, the daughter of an Iranian immigrant, and Cameron, a descendant of the Shah, were an item. Next time on Lady Mafia. Sarah was dead set on keeping her new man, his good looks and pedigree. She wanted to help him, support him, and prove that she was enough.

Her desperation would cloud her judgment. And she ended up making a deal for Cameron that would jeopardize everything. Unlock all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to the Binge Podcast channel. Not only will you immediately unlock all episodes of this show, but you'll get binge access to an entire network of other great true crime and investigative podcasts, all ad-free.

Her desperation would cloud her judgment. And she ended up making a deal for Cameron that would jeopardize everything. Unlock all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to the Binge Podcast channel. Not only will you immediately unlock all episodes of this show, but you'll get binge access to an entire network of other great true crime and investigative podcasts, all ad-free.

Plus, on the first of every month, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series. That's all episodes all at once. Search for The Binge on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page. Not on Apple? Head to getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. Lady Mafia is an original production of Sony Music Entertainment. It was hosted and reported by me, Michelle McPhee.

Plus, on the first of every month, subscribers get a binge drop of a brand new series. That's all episodes all at once. Search for The Binge on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page. Not on Apple? Head to getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. Lady Mafia is an original production of Sony Music Entertainment. It was hosted and reported by me, Michelle McPhee.

Odelia Rubin is our lead producer. Jonathan Hirsch wrote this episode with a little help from me. Catherine St. Louis is our story editor. Shara Morris and Jonathan Hirsch are our executive producers. Sound design and mixing by Scott Somerville. Theme and original music composed by Hans Dale Shee. We also use music from Epidemic Sound and Blue Dot Sessions. Our associate producer is Zoe Culkin.

Odelia Rubin is our lead producer. Jonathan Hirsch wrote this episode with a little help from me. Catherine St. Louis is our story editor. Shara Morris and Jonathan Hirsch are our executive producers. Sound design and mixing by Scott Somerville. Theme and original music composed by Hans Dale Shee. We also use music from Epidemic Sound and Blue Dot Sessions. Our associate producer is Zoe Culkin.

Our fact checker is Fendall Fulton. Our production manager is Tamika Valens-Kolasny. Special thanks to Steve Ackerman, Emily Rosick, Jamie Myers, and Allie Kiltz.

Our fact checker is Fendall Fulton. Our production manager is Tamika Valens-Kolasny. Special thanks to Steve Ackerman, Emily Rosick, Jamie Myers, and Allie Kiltz.

It's a circular bar at the center of the restaurant. That's when she saw him.

It's a circular bar at the center of the restaurant. That's when she saw him.

The guy at the center of all the activity, a guy named Brian Quinn.

The guy at the center of all the activity, a guy named Brian Quinn.

So this bubblegum gangster was treating R&D like his own personal strip club. Sara was immediately drawn to him. His brashness, his confidence.

So this bubblegum gangster was treating R&D like his own personal strip club. Sara was immediately drawn to him. His brashness, his confidence.

The first year or so that Sarah and Brian knew each other, they weren't close, but they'd often run into each other.

The first year or so that Sarah and Brian knew each other, they weren't close, but they'd often run into each other.

It's something I started to notice about Sarah. She's a girl who likes to live a few drinks deep. Brian Quinn, for his part, is one of those guys that no one really knows what he does. The kind of guy who seemed to have a lot of secrets, but everyone knows his name.

It's something I started to notice about Sarah. She's a girl who likes to live a few drinks deep. Brian Quinn, for his part, is one of those guys that no one really knows what he does. The kind of guy who seemed to have a lot of secrets, but everyone knows his name.

Listen to all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page or visit getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. The Binge, feed your true crime obsession. Don't get it twisted. I knew what I was walking into when I met Sarah. I wasn't about to take her story hook, line, and sinker.

Listen to all episodes of Lady Mafia ad-free right now by subscribing to The Binge. Visit The Binge channel on Apple Podcasts and hit subscribe at the top of the page or visit getthebinge.com to get access wherever you listen. The Binge, feed your true crime obsession. Don't get it twisted. I knew what I was walking into when I met Sarah. I wasn't about to take her story hook, line, and sinker.

Pelican Hill is a resort in the O.C.,

Pelican Hill is a resort in the O.C.,

I've actually been there myself. The rooms are exquisite, with private little yards and a sprawling golf course. Very classy. But the restaurant is where the action is. Sitting at the bar at its old-school steakhouse-y restaurant, I could definitely pick out the resort guests from the full-time residence by how the Italian bartender was pouring their wine.

I've actually been there myself. The rooms are exquisite, with private little yards and a sprawling golf course. Very classy. But the restaurant is where the action is. Sitting at the bar at its old-school steakhouse-y restaurant, I could definitely pick out the resort guests from the full-time residence by how the Italian bartender was pouring their wine.

And yet, this was the place where Sarah said you could find Brian Quinn dancing shirtless on the bar. Who was this guy?

And yet, this was the place where Sarah said you could find Brian Quinn dancing shirtless on the bar. Who was this guy?

Sarah saw something in Brian, a freedom she envied, a swagger she wanted. He was like my brother. You know, we became fast friends. They started talking and found out that they had both lived in Rancho Santa Fe, a fancy town where Sarah's parents used to live on a golf course.

Sarah saw something in Brian, a freedom she envied, a swagger she wanted. He was like my brother. You know, we became fast friends. They started talking and found out that they had both lived in Rancho Santa Fe, a fancy town where Sarah's parents used to live on a golf course.

Now, Sarah said she heard the rumors that Brian was a crook, allegedly. But that didn't stop her and Gerard from doing business with him.

Now, Sarah said she heard the rumors that Brian was a crook, allegedly. But that didn't stop her and Gerard from doing business with him.

Sarah was looking for excitement and money. How she got there was less important. And something else about her. She can be taken in. By money for sure, but most definitely by personality. Brian's charisma overpowered doubts some people had about whether this guy was a legitimate businessman.

Sarah was looking for excitement and money. How she got there was less important. And something else about her. She can be taken in. By money for sure, but most definitely by personality. Brian's charisma overpowered doubts some people had about whether this guy was a legitimate businessman.

It was party time 24-7 when you were around Brian for sure, but make no mistake, he was always wheeling and dealing. Brian was looking for investors, and Gerard and Sarah were the perfect candidates. She told Brian she was frustrated with being a lawyer.

It was party time 24-7 when you were around Brian for sure, but make no mistake, he was always wheeling and dealing. Brian was looking for investors, and Gerard and Sarah were the perfect candidates. She told Brian she was frustrated with being a lawyer.

Brian ran a hard money lending business called Luxury Asset Lending. It's like he's a middleman. On the one side are pitiful folks who need to borrow cash quick and are supposed to repay it. On the other side are people who invest money with Brian and are looking to profit, like Sarah and Gerard.

Brian ran a hard money lending business called Luxury Asset Lending. It's like he's a middleman. On the one side are pitiful folks who need to borrow cash quick and are supposed to repay it. On the other side are people who invest money with Brian and are looking to profit, like Sarah and Gerard.

Money to burn, liquid cash, willing to take risks. Sarah and Gerard gave Brian cash no less than six times. When you look around at people in the OC, they look like they're living the life. But there are so many desperate people who need to keep up with the Joneses.

Money to burn, liquid cash, willing to take risks. Sarah and Gerard gave Brian cash no less than six times. When you look around at people in the OC, they look like they're living the life. But there are so many desperate people who need to keep up with the Joneses.

I've been trying to track this guy Brian down for over a year now. The guy's a frigging ghost. When I searched for his business, this hilarious video came up. It reminded me of those cheesy beer ads for the most interesting man in the world. Listen to this rather dramatic video. A Lamborghini drives out some iron gates. Then text comes across the screen.

I've been trying to track this guy Brian down for over a year now. The guy's a frigging ghost. When I searched for his business, this hilarious video came up. It reminded me of those cheesy beer ads for the most interesting man in the world. Listen to this rather dramatic video. A Lamborghini drives out some iron gates. Then text comes across the screen.

As a yacht cascades past a city backdrop, the pitch continues.

As a yacht cascades past a city backdrop, the pitch continues.

It goes on for another minute, showing pictures of diamonds, private jets, and of course, the Bellagio fountain. Not to mention, at one point, the video spells the word solely wrong. Sounds trustworthy to me. But what Sarah saw in Brian was a confident guy who could work a room and a chance to make massive returns on her money. I mean, if this kept up, she might be able to quit her day job.

It goes on for another minute, showing pictures of diamonds, private jets, and of course, the Bellagio fountain. Not to mention, at one point, the video spells the word solely wrong. Sounds trustworthy to me. But what Sarah saw in Brian was a confident guy who could work a room and a chance to make massive returns on her money. I mean, if this kept up, she might be able to quit her day job.

Sarah felt like her relationship with Gerard had run its course. After more than 10 years together, she was ready to move out. But before she did, she called up someone else. Her new friend and big brother, Brian Quinn.

Sarah felt like her relationship with Gerard had run its course. After more than 10 years together, she was ready to move out. But before she did, she called up someone else. Her new friend and big brother, Brian Quinn.

Sarah showed up at the bar before Brian did and ordered herself a drink. It was a nice place. One of the upscale spots at the mall.

Sarah showed up at the bar before Brian did and ordered herself a drink. It was a nice place. One of the upscale spots at the mall.

Sarah was pretty upset. She'd spent a decade with Javar and she wasn't really sure what the future would hold for her. She sipped her drink and waited for her friend Brian to show up. He finally did. She started telling him about what was going on with Gerard, that she might decide to leave him for good. She said she was shaking as she talked.

Sarah was pretty upset. She'd spent a decade with Javar and she wasn't really sure what the future would hold for her. She sipped her drink and waited for her friend Brian to show up. He finally did. She started telling him about what was going on with Gerard, that she might decide to leave him for good. She said she was shaking as she talked.

I knew she sometimes, well, had trouble keeping her story straight. Sorting fact from fiction felt like sorting grains of rice. Sarah would have you believe that she went in search of love and wealth. And what the hell is wrong with that? But as I began to hear her story, even in the early days, it didn't seem to be quite that simple. I think she liked the thrill, too.

I knew she sometimes, well, had trouble keeping her story straight. Sorting fact from fiction felt like sorting grains of rice. Sarah would have you believe that she went in search of love and wealth. And what the hell is wrong with that? But as I began to hear her story, even in the early days, it didn't seem to be quite that simple. I think she liked the thrill, too.

Brian said, why don't you come live with me at my villa in Pelican Hill? Sarah was grateful. She'd found her soft landing. Sarah and Gerard officially broke up. They did continue to work together on investments and business opportunities, but in love, they went their separate ways.

Brian said, why don't you come live with me at my villa in Pelican Hill? Sarah was grateful. She'd found her soft landing. Sarah and Gerard officially broke up. They did continue to work together on investments and business opportunities, but in love, they went their separate ways.

Sarah makes herself sound chill about the whole breakup here, but I know for a fact she was heartbroken, at least over the dogs, Dino and Louie. And maybe it was friendly at first, but Gerard would eventually request a restraining order against her that painted a different picture. He had a new girlfriend, and Sarah was ugly about it, according to court records.

Sarah makes herself sound chill about the whole breakup here, but I know for a fact she was heartbroken, at least over the dogs, Dino and Louie. And maybe it was friendly at first, but Gerard would eventually request a restraining order against her that painted a different picture. He had a new girlfriend, and Sarah was ugly about it, according to court records.

He describes a pattern of stalking and threats, and he had plenty of texts to make his case. But when Sarah moved into Brian Quinn's second bedroom at his villa in Pelican Hill, she was 34, had some cash, but not much else.

He describes a pattern of stalking and threats, and he had plenty of texts to make his case. But when Sarah moved into Brian Quinn's second bedroom at his villa in Pelican Hill, she was 34, had some cash, but not much else.

Zara said she felt relieved and that Brian was the friend she needed to start her new life.

Zara said she felt relieved and that Brian was the friend she needed to start her new life.

She said they drank and ate snacks and charcuterie all day. On top of that, Brian had all this influence and money that Zara so clearly craved. And he needed her help.

She said they drank and ate snacks and charcuterie all day. On top of that, Brian had all this influence and money that Zara so clearly craved. And he needed her help.

Brian started organizing these investor parties. He'd entertain big shots with deep pockets and everything was about appearances.

Brian started organizing these investor parties. He'd entertain big shots with deep pockets and everything was about appearances.

Brother and sister showing up at meetings in their matching white Rolls Royces. Can't make this up.

Brother and sister showing up at meetings in their matching white Rolls Royces. Can't make this up.

Sarah played the part of the conservative lawyer, making sure everything looked professional, under control.

Sarah played the part of the conservative lawyer, making sure everything looked professional, under control.

The party showed these guys that your life could be like this all the time if you toss Brian a few hundred thousand dollars. And so having a lawyer around while these parties were happening was very useful to him.

The party showed these guys that your life could be like this all the time if you toss Brian a few hundred thousand dollars. And so having a lawyer around while these parties were happening was very useful to him.

she made the whole thing seem legitimate. In between the escorts and the bar buyouts and the free-flowing drinks, people started putting some serious money into Brian's business.

she made the whole thing seem legitimate. In between the escorts and the bar buyouts and the free-flowing drinks, people started putting some serious money into Brian's business.

She was raised to be competitive. And she didn't want to just win. She wanted to win big. You can have good intentions and find yourself in a hole. A hole that seems impossible to get out of. But I also think people are who they are. Sometimes they're just looking for permission to break bad, to be who they really want to be.

She was raised to be competitive. And she didn't want to just win. She wanted to win big. You can have good intentions and find yourself in a hole. A hole that seems impossible to get out of. But I also think people are who they are. Sometimes they're just looking for permission to break bad, to be who they really want to be.

In exchange for her help, Sarah got to live rent-free in a $30,000 a month villa and never paid for anything. Her food, her drinks, everything was always on Brian's tab. And meanwhile, she's also learning the ropes of the hard money lending business. She said she did have to cover for him quite a bit.

In exchange for her help, Sarah got to live rent-free in a $30,000 a month villa and never paid for anything. Her food, her drinks, everything was always on Brian's tab. And meanwhile, she's also learning the ropes of the hard money lending business. She said she did have to cover for him quite a bit.

His girlfriend lived in the villa with them, and frequently she would lie to her about where Brian was and what he was doing. She'd also have to do some cleanups after their daily visits to the bar.

His girlfriend lived in the villa with them, and frequently she would lie to her about where Brian was and what he was doing. She'd also have to do some cleanups after their daily visits to the bar.