Fortress Capital Partners, a lending firm led by the fiancee of Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay and her father, is under investigation for an alleged investment fraud that has left the footballer and other investors facing significant losses. McTominay loaned money to the firm to purchase an investment property in Portugal, potentially resulting in a £1million loss. Other investors included Boyzone star Shane Lynch and Mario Falcone from The Only Way is Essex. The company, which collapsed last September, lent investors’ money at high interest rates and invested in properties in Dubai, Spain, and the UK, with administrators predicting investors may only recover 10% of their initial investments.
The failed lending firm, Fortress Capital Partners, is now being investigated by the Metropolitan Police for allegations of fraud. The investigation follows a referral from Action Fraud, although no arrests have been made. The company’s downfall is attributed to repaying debts using funds from investors who believed they were contributing to future investments rather than covering past losses. This resulted in an overall loss of approximately £3.1m, funded directly or indirectly by the company’s investors. Scott McTominay’s fiancee, Cameron, who previously served as the investor relations head of the company, is being pursued for around £1.5m in loans by administrators. The situation has caused distress among investors who face losing their homes, life savings, and retirement funds.
Amidst the investigation and legal proceedings, Cameron Reading has come under fire for showcasing a lavish lifestyle on social media while investors face financial hardship. The company’s collapse has left individuals contemplating drastic measures, with one investor expressing suicidal tendencies. Fortress Capital Partners’ collapse has had far-reaching implications, affecting investors beyond financial losses. Ashley Reading, Cameron’s father and a key figure in the firm, has stated that he is cooperating with administrators to achieve the best outcome for all creditors. He claims to be unaware of the ongoing police investigation. In November, a spokesman for Scott McTominay stated that the footballer had no involvement with Fortress Capital Partners, distancing himself from the situation.
The involvement of high-profile individuals such as Scott McTominay, Shane Lynch, and Mario Falcone has brought significant attention to the alleged investment fraud case. Despite the high interest rates promised to investors and the properties purchased by the company in various locations, the collapse of Fortress Capital Partners has left many facing substantial financial losses. The investigation by the Metropolitan Police highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the potential consequences for those involved. As legal proceedings continue, investors are left with uncertainty regarding the recovery of their investments and the future of the lending firm. The case serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with investments and the importance of due diligence when engaging with financial firms.
