Former Child Star Facing Federal Fraud Charges After Alleged Investment Scheme Collapses

Crime | By Rachel Stone | March 31, 2026

Federal prosecutors in New York have filed a 14-count indictment against former child actor Danny Garrison, alleging that the once-beloved sitcom star orchestrated a multi-million-dollar investment fraud scheme that bilked dozens of fellow celebrities and high-net-worth individuals out of an estimated $47 million. Garrison, 38, who rose to fame as the wisecracking youngest brother on the hit 2000s sitcom "Full Circle," was arrested at his Miami Beach home early Monday morning.

According to the indictment unsealed in the Southern District of New York, Garrison allegedly created a series of shell companies purporting to invest in cryptocurrency mining operations, luxury real estate developments, and a chain of wellness clinics. Prosecutors say the ventures were largely fictitious, with investor funds instead being used to finance Garrison's lavish lifestyle, including a $12 million yacht, a private jet, and properties in Dubai and the Bahamas.

The alleged scheme ran from 2021 to late 2025, when several investors grew suspicious after receiving inconsistent financial reports and filed complaints with the SEC. Among the alleged victims are at least four current NFL players, two Grammy-winning musicians, and several well-known social media influencers, none of whom have been publicly identified. Prosecutors say Garrison leveraged his celebrity status and personal relationships to build trust with victims, often pitching investments at exclusive parties and industry events.

Garrison's attorney, Miranda Leigh, released a statement calling the charges "overblown and misleading," asserting that her client is "a legitimate businessman who made investments that unfortunately did not perform as hoped." Garrison, who was released on $2 million bail with conditions including surrender of his passport, faces up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted on the most serious charges. His arraignment is scheduled for April 15 in Manhattan federal court.