Church becomes victim of local swindler

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) A local swindler took advantage of a number of people, and groups including a local church. Now the victims are talking to News 8.

Pile of bricks surrounded by caution tape sit where should be a new gymnasium.

We had built the foundation of the gymnasium as well as some the rooms that were going to be here for fellowship purposes, and right now this is where it stays and it may stay here for quite some time, said Father Peter Orfanakos.

St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church doesnt have the money to finish construction because they are the victim of Ponzi scheme. master-mined by Gregory Lowles.

In total the church lost 2.1 Million dollars, said Orfanakos.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Lowles stole more than $27 million from trusting individuals and business owners. Many were members of his own church.

Having not only the church losing money but many of the parishioners suffering a personal loss, it has a rippled affect in regards to how much people can donate to the work of the church, said Orfanakos.

Father Peter says Lowles joined the church back in 1995, it didnt take long for Lowles to gain control the churches financial matters.

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Church becomes victim of local swindler