SEC bars former Morgan Stanley broker who stole $5 million

SEC bars former Morgan Stanley broker who stole $5 million
Final judgment also finds Barry F. Connell liable for restitution, which he repaid in criminal case
JAN 05, 2021

A federal court in New York has entered a final consent judgment against Barry F. Connell, a former Morgan Stanley broker whom the Securities and Exchange Commission had charged with investment adviser fraud for misappropriating client funds.

The SEC brought the complaint against Connell in 2017, charging that he misappropriated more than $5 million by moving funds between certain client accounts and issuing falsified third-party wire transfer forms and checks. Connell allegedly directed the funds to cover his personal expenses.

In a parallel criminal action, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York filed criminal charges against Connell. He pled guilty to those charges and was sentenced to a prison term of time served of approximately 36 months and ordered to pay forfeiture and restitution.

The final judgment finds Connell liable for disgorgement in the amount of $5,148,651 that is deemed satisfied by the restitution ordered against him in the criminal action.

Connell, who was barred by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. in 2017, also consented to an SEC order permanently barring him from the industry.

Latest News

The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed
The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed

From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.

Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty
Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty

Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.

Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments
Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments

“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.

Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025
Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025

Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.

IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients
IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients

Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.