Different Worlds, One Scam

Affinity Fraud: A Public Relations Problem?

Cass said affinity scam victims, in particular, may be reluctant to bring a scam to light for fear of damaging public perceptions of their groups.

"Particularly if the group is in some sense outside the mainstream, you don't want to do something that exacerbates the stereotype that makes you seem less attractive," he said.

Still, victims like Horace-Manasse are speaking out.

The 30-year-old mother of four has hired lawyers -- she's being represented by Rothstein's firm -- and is hoping to get at least some of her money back.

Horace-Manasse used to be "a believer" in Theodule, she said. Now, she said, "I just feel hurt."