Kristian M. Gaudet of Cut Off Louisiana a stockbroker formerly registered with Ameritas Investment Corp has been barred from associating with any Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) member in any capacity based upon consenting to findings that Gaudet failed to cooperate with a FINRA investigation into allegations of Gaudet’s misuse of customer funds during the time that he was associated with Ameritas Investment Corp. Letter of Acceptance Waiver and Consent No. 2018060600901 (Jan. 24, 2019).
FINRA Public Disclosure reveals that prior to Gaudet’s termination from Ameritas Investment Corp., FINRA reviewed a Rule 4530 report containing information about Gaudet’s civil actions or customer complaints. At that time, FINRA launched an investigation into whether Gaudet engaged in fraudulent conduct. Then, on December 10, 2018, Ameritas Investment Corporation discharged Gaudet from the firm founded on accusations that Gaudet had utilized an Ameritas customer’s funds for his personal use.
The AWC stated that on January 10, 2019, Gaudet was issued a notice from FINRA that the regulator sought Gaudet’s recorded-testimony under Rule 8210 in regard to the allegations of his misconduct as cited by Ameritas Investment Corp in its termination of Gaudet. Apparently, Gaudet’s counsel corresponded with FINRA personnel in a letter dated January 11, 2019 and e-mail dated January 14, 2018 in regard to its request for Gaudet’s testimony.
Specifically, the AWC revealed that Gaudet confirmed receipt of FINRA’s request; however, he refused to make any appearance for testimony, and Gaudet indicated he would not cooperate with any future requests for his testimony. FINRA found that Gaudet’s failure to cooperate in its investigation into his misuse of customer funds was violative of FINRA Rules 2010 and 8210. Consequently, Gaudet was barred by FINRA in all capacities.
Gaudet was employed by Ameritas Investment Corp. between December 31, 2003 and December 10, 2018.
