BCSC seeks to return funds in Alexander case

VANCOUVER, May 11, 2016 /CNW/ - The British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) today announced that it will notify the investor who lost money as a result of misconduct perpetrated by Keith Henry Alexander to make an application for compensation. The BCSC secured $20,000 through a settlement agreement in which Alexander acknowledged that he distributed a security without a prospectus and without being registered to trade.

Under changes made to the Securities Act in November 2013, the BCSC must make funds that have been paid to the BCSC available to eligible investors who lost money as a result of respondent misconduct.

Alexander, a B.C. resident during the relevant period, raised approximately $1,440,000 from 13 investors between February 1, 2007, and August 15, 2008 under exemptions from prospectus requirements. On July 24, 2008, one investor gave $20,000 to Alexander. Alexander acknowledged that the distribution to that investor did not qualify for any prospectus exemptions, thereby rendering it an illegal distribution. 

In addition to paying a $7,500 fine and the $20,000 he obtained as a result of his misconduct to the BCSC, Alexander was also prohibited from trading in securities (with limited exceptions), and from becoming or acting as a director, officer, promoter, or registrant (with limited exceptions) for a period of three years. Alexander was also banned, for the same period, from acting in a management or consultative capacity in connection with the securities market, and from engaging in investor relations activities.

The investor can make a claim to recover her losses by applying to the BCSC using the required form no later than May 11, 2019.

About the British Columbia Securities Commission (www.bcsc.bc.ca)

The British Columbia Securities Commission is the independent provincial government agency responsible for regulating capital markets in British Columbia through the administration of the Securities Act. Our mission is to protect and promote the public interest by fostering:

• A securities market that is fair and warrants public confidence
• A dynamic and competitive securities industry that provides investment opportunities and access to capital

Learn how to protect yourself and become a more informed investor at www.investright.org

SOURCE British Columbia Securities Commission

Media Contact: Richard Gilhooley, Media Relations, 604-899-6713; Public inquiries: 604-899-6854 or 1-800-373-6393 (toll free)