A Texas couple accused of running a fraudulent pyramid scheme that preyed on thousands—mainly within the Black community—has pleaded guilty to money laundering.
LaShonda Moore, 35, and Marlon Moore, 37, entered their guilty pleas on January 16, 2025, admitting their role in the Blessings in No Time (BINT) scam that deceived investors out of more than $10 million. While their sentencing date has yet to be set, the couple now faces the possibility of years behind bars.
BINT was marketed as a faith-based financial opportunity that promised participants an 800% return on their initial investment. The Moores lured thousands of victims—primarily African Americans—by positioning the program as a community-driven effort to build wealth, particularly during the financial struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to court documents, the couple designed BINT as a chain-referral pyramid scheme using a so-called “playing board” system. Participants were required to pay approximately $1,400 to enter at the Fire level, with the expectation that they would move up the ranks and eventually receive a large payout once new members joined beneath them. However, investigators found that the only ones consistently profiting were the Moores and their family members, who placed themselves in the Water position—the highest and most lucrative tier.
With thousands of people continuously investing but only a select few cashing out, the scheme ultimately collapsed, leaving many victims with significant financial losses.
Authorities believe the Moores used their appearance on OWN Network’s Family or Fiancé to gain trust and credibility. The reality show, which features engaged couples working through relationship challenges with their families, may have helped them establish legitimacy in the eyes of potential investors.
By 2023, the scheme had caught the attention of law enforcement. In July of that year, the Texas Attorney General’s Office secured a $10.76 million judgment against the couple. As part of that civil settlement, the Moores were ordered to pay at least $450,000 into a fund that would help reimburse victims.
Despite the judgment, criminal charges soon followed. In November 2023, the Moores were indicted for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Now, with their guilty plea, they are one step closer to facing the full consequences of their actions.
While the couple has admitted to money laundering, their sentencing remains pending.
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