Investigations

On October 13, 2021, Matthew Jones was indicted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah for wire fraud and operating as an airman without an airman’s certificate. In May 2019, Jones falsely claimed to be a certified flight instructor (CFI) and signed a contract to train an individual who wanted to obtain fixed-wing and rotary wing ratings. According to FAA records, Jones advertised his status as a CFI through Instagram posts and text messages. Furthermore, Jones fraudulently withdrew approximately $10,000 from a bank account dedicated for flight instruction purposes, and instead used the funds to pay for rent, a cell phone, and miscellaneous purchases from Walmart.

 

Note: Indictments, informations, and criminal complaints are only accusations by the Government. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.