By Staff Writer, Mercedes Singleton
August 4, 2025
Major Financial Fraud Settlement Case
After Son of TV Producer Allegedly Embezzles Family Fortune
In 2016, Kevin Faler conducted an inquiry into a potential embezzlement financial elder abuse case—a headline making waves from Riverside County to Los Angeles and across the entertainment industry. This legal victory, rooted in betrayal and greed. Involves the high-profile financial exploitation of Malcolm Barbour. Renowned television producer of the iconic COPS series, by none other than his own son. It should be noted Malcom passed away prior to much of the proceedings.
What began as a quiet internal inquiry spiraled into a case exposing one of the most egregious examples of financial elder abuse in recent memory. With millions of dollars siphoned from Barbour’s personal and business accounts, the case wasn’t just about money—it was about restoring dignity and trust. Kevin Faler, a consultant and defense strategist whose relentless work assisted in cracking the case wide open. Many of the names of people involved have been kept confidential.
“This was personal on every level,” Faler said in a recent interview. “You don’t expect your own blood to rob you blind, but when it happens, you fight like hell to make it right.”
A Family Betrayal with Hollywood Ties
Faler Exposes Deep Layers of Deceit
The culprit didn’t just steal pocket change. Over time, he discreetly transferred millions out of his father’s accounts, manipulating power of attorney privileges, forging documents, and even using Malcolm’s declining health to gain deeper control. This was amateur theft—it was a premeditated financial ambush.
The fraud spanned multiple years, involving shell companies, falsified banking records, and unauthorized withdrawals. When suspicions were first raised, Kevin was brought in to conduct an inquiry—and what he uncovered was nothing short of staggering.
Riverside County, located just east of Los Angeles, became the unlikely battleground for this Hollywood-adjacent financial scandal. Although the Barbour family name carries entertainment weight, the L.A. courtroom drama played out far from red carpets and cameras. And that’s where Faler’s meticulous inquires behind the scene became a game-changer.
Unraveling the Scam: Faler’s Role Was Pivotal
From Suspicion to Settlement, Every Dollar Traced
Faler was smart, he brought in the best forensic accounting guru in the State of California, a Phd, F.A.E., C.P.A. with efforts traced every suspicious transaction back to the culprit. Working closely with attorneys and investigators, the evidence was reconstructed pointing out the financial narrative, presenting damning evidence that left no doubt about culprit’s role in the embezzlement.
Scott’s defense crumbled under the weight of the findings, eventually leading to a confidential settlement agreement that returned millions to Malcolm Barbour. Though the exact figure remains sealed, those close to the case confirm it reached into the high seven figures.
“This case proves that no matter how clever the criminal, truth leaves a trail.” Malcom although passed away prior to the trial was defended by his daughter as the plaintiff in this matter.
Justice Secured, But More Work Ahead
Faler Urges Families to Watch for Financial Red Flags
Now that Kevin Faler prevails in major financial fraud settlement case, his focus is on helping other families spot similar warning signs. “It’s happening every day—right now—across California,” he said. “People are being drained by those closest to them, and most never see it coming.” It seems adult children believe they’re entitled to their parents wealth before it’s time. Financial elder abuse is wide open in California. Most D.A.’s will not prosecute these types of elder abuse cases due to legalties involving different power of attorney documents.
Faler is calling on local communities, particularly in Riverside and neighboring Los Angeles County, to advocate for stronger safeguards for seniors and dependent adults. That includes more transparency in banking, stricter oversight on power of attorney use, and access to investigators who can intervene before the damage is irreversible.
If your family suspects financial wrongdoing or if you’re navigating a similar crisis, Kevin Faler encourages you to speak up. You can connect directly at info@kevinfaler.com for confidential consultation or to report concerns.
Truth matters. Justice matters. And the fight to protect our loved ones is never over.
Share this story. Be vigilant. And always follow the money. PLEASE DO NOT PUT ANYONE’S NAME ON YOUR BANK ACCOUNT. DO NOT SIGN ANY POWER OF ATTORNEY UNTIL YOU SPEAK TO YOUR OWN ATTORNEY. DO NOT PLACE ANYONE’S NAME ON YOUR PROPERTY DEED.
Note: There are several decedents of the Barbour family that were named in this case but their names have been kept confidential. Although no parties were charged criminally in this matter it does not mean actors were not culpable. The T.V. show was conveyed to another producer prior to this particular aforementioned court matter.
