Harris Faulkner Just Announced Rick Lagina Has Been Arrested For Ponzi Scheme

Nevertheless, they concluded that this artifact dates before the discovery of The Money Pit, pointing to the presence of objects with historical significance amid the diverse discoveries. One particular item captures special attention: a handcrafted Spike. Recognizing the value of every piece of evidence, the team plans to subject this Spike to a complete analysis.

The crew appearance Harris Falkner recently shocked fans with a huge announcement: Rick Lagina, one of the stars of The Curse of Oak Island, has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a Ponzi scheme. This news has left everyone in disbelief. Could the treasure hunter we all know and love really be tangled up in something so shady? As the news spreads, fans are now left wondering what this means for the future of the show and for Rick himself.

Rick Lagina, alongside his brother Marty, has been at the center of the Oak Island Treasure Hunt since the show first aired in 2014, but the news of his arrest has brought more mystery to the surface than anyone expected. While the Lagina brothers are known for their relentless pursuit of Oak Island’s hidden treasure, it seems Rick may have been hiding a few secrets of his own. Fans of The Curse of Oak Island are stunned and left asking questions. What led to Rick’s arrest? Could this be related to his treasure hunting activities, or was there something else going on behind the scenes?

The accusation of a Ponzi scheme, a type of fraud where new investors’ money is used to pay off earlier investors, raises serious concerns. This scandal has cast a shadow over Rick’s reputation, leaving people to question whether everything we’ve seen on the show was real or if there was something darker lurking beneath the surface.

Craig Tester, a key figure on the show and longtime partner of the Lagina brothers, is also being pulled into the spotlight with the news of Rick’s arrest. Fans are starting to piece together Craig’s sudden departure from the show. Some now speculate that Craig may have known about Rick’s involvement in the scheme, and that could be why he left the show unexpectedly. Was Craig protecting himself from getting caught up in Rick’s legal troubles, or was his exit purely coincidental?

The Curse of Oak Island has always been filled with mysteries, but now the biggest mystery might be what’s happening offscreen.

On January 6th, 2014, The History Channel premiered an exciting series about Oak Island. The show follows brothers Rick and Marty Lagina from Michigan as they search for treasure on the island. The series has captured the interest of many viewers, all eagerly waiting to see what secrets Oak Island hides beneath its surface.

The Lagina brothers aren’t alone in their search; they are joined by a dedicated team, including Dan and Dave Blankenship, Craig Tester, Jack Begley, Dan Hensy, Charles Barkhouse, and Peter Fornetti—all of whom drive the story of The Curse of Oak Island forward. Craig Tester’s decision to leave the show came as a shock, given the significant role he had played. But before diving into why he left, it’s important to understand why Oak Island itself is so fascinating.

Its history is filled with stories of hidden treasure and ancient artifacts that go back hundreds of years. Oak Island has always been a target for treasure hunters and explorers, all drawn in by the mysteries that lie beneath the island. Located in Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, it has a beautiful landscape of thick forests. But it’s not just the scenery that attracts people—it’s the rich history and tales of hidden wealth waiting to be uncovered.

What truly makes Oak Island so mysterious is the incredible stories and theories that have been passed down through the years. Over time, some amazing discoveries have been made, such as a strange stone carved with confusing symbols, adding to the island’s puzzle. The mystery only grows deeper with the discovery of underground tunnels and shafts, hinting at a complex system beneath the surface. This has sparked discussions among treasure hunters and historians alike. Oak Island has always been known for its tricky traps and water tunnels that were put there to stop treasure hunters. These challenges make the search for its hidden secrets tough and dangerous, but despite all these obstacles, Rick Lagina, his brother Marty, and their team have worked hard to uncover the island’s mysteries.

Their determination, even when facing setbacks, has kept fans interested and excited about what could be discovered next. Over the years, many treasure hunters and experts have spent a lot of time and money trying to solve Oak Island’s puzzle, but no solid proof of treasure has been found yet. This lack of evidence only makes the island more mysterious, with many people coming up with their own ideas about what could be hidden there. Some think it’s pirate treasure, while others believe it’s linked to the mysterious Knights Templar. There are even theories about ancient treasures like the Ark of the Covenant being buried beneath the island, making it a place full of secrets that could change history.

Oak Island keeps its secrets well, and no one has been able to figure it all out, even though many people have tried. The hidden treasure remains a mystery, but the possibility of finding something valuable keeps everyone hooked, and each new attempt at digging into the island brings fresh hope of discovering something amazing.

Since 1857, Oak Island has attracted treasure hunters from all over the world, all looking for the rumored wealth beneath its surface. In 1965, a bridge was built connecting the island to the mainland, allowing people to use bigger machines to dig deeper. This allowed for more serious and organized searches for the treasure that many believed was there.

Treasure hunter Dan Blankenship, along with his partner David Tobias, worked hard to solve the island’s mystery, but they were never able to find the treasure. Then, in February 2019, a new group called The Michigan Group took over. This team, led by Rick and Marty Lagina, along with Craig Tester and others, took control of much of the island. This move not only reinforced their dedication to the ongoing search but also highlighted their united determination to dive deeper into the mystery that had puzzled previous treasure seekers.

Led by Rick and Marty Lagina, Craig Tester, and Alan Costera, the Michigan Group brought a fresh sense of enthusiasm to the quest for Oak Island’s treasures. With their combined skills, resources, and shared love for solving the island’s secrets, they aimed to start a new chapter in exploration, building on the work of those who came before them.

Among the key figures in this treasure hunt, Craig Tester stands out. Working alongside the well-known Lagina brothers, Tester’s role is featured prominently in the hit show The Curse of Oak Island, which closely follows their determined efforts to uncover the island’s hidden riches. With a background in engineering, Tester has made crucial contributions, especially in using modern technology to study underground structures and mysterious spots on the island.

Initially just a core team member, Tester’s role grew over time, bringing him into the spotlight as both a co-star and producer of the show. His rise and influence not only reflect his valuable input to the search but also his increasing role in shaping the story fans see on TV. Craig Tester’s practical skills and sharp analytical thinking complement the rest of the team’s talents, and his work with advanced equipment helps in digging deeper into the unexplored terrain of Oak Island.

During his time at Delta Yups Salon College, Craig Tester focused on earning his degree in engineering. It was there that he met Marty Lagina, who would later become not only a close friend but also a key partner in their shared adventures. Tester and Marty were roommates in college, and during their time together, they discovered a mutual passion for treasure hunting. Though Craig initially considered pursuing professional wrestling, he eventually chose a different path. After competing in wrestling tournaments, he decided to focus on his engineering skills, which led him to the oil industry.

Working alongside Marty in this field turned out to be highly successful. Craig’s engineering knowledge played a major role in their accomplishments, and together they founded a corporation, earning significant profits in the oil sector. Despite their success, neither Craig nor Marty lost their interest in treasure hunting. This passion brought them together again, this time to set off on the exciting journey that would be shown in The Curse of Oak Island.

Aside from treasure hunting, Craig and Marty also started a wind energy company called Heritage Sustainable Energy. This company became Michigan’s largest wind turbine manufacturer, showing that their talents extended far beyond oil and treasure hunting. Craig’s role in Heritage Sustainable Energy reflects his commitment to environmentally friendly and sustainable business practices. He is also part owner of Oak Island, solidifying his dedication to uncovering its long-hidden secrets.

Craig and Marty originally founded Terra Energy, an oil company that found and extracted natural gas in Michigan. This venture was incredibly successful, generating over $3 billion in oil and other resources. Craig’s sharp business sense contributed greatly to this success, which has helped build his substantial wealth. Craig’s involvement in The Curse of Oak Island has also added to his earnings, boosting his net worth to around $5 million. His diverse skills in business, engineering, and treasure hunting have made him a key figure in the ongoing search on Oak Island.

In the show, Craig’s expertise goes beyond treasure hunting. He plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the crew, assessing whether certain areas of the island are safe for digging. His knowledge helps prevent accidents, ensuring that the team’s search for artifacts is done with care and precision. There was a memorable moment in the series when fans saw Craig Tester visibly frustrated, which led to speculation among viewers that some thought was a bit overblown. This scene gave insight into the challenges and pressures the team faces while navigating the uncertainties of Oak Island.

Interestingly, some viewers have developed unique theories about what could be hidden on Oak Island beyond the usual expectations of historical artifacts or traditional treasure. Some believe that valuable first editions or folios of Shakespeare’s plays might be buried beneath the island. This possibility adds another layer of mystery, suggesting the treasure hunt might uncover cultural or literary treasures.

In season 5, the team came across a fragment that immediately caught everyone’s attention. It seemed odd at first, and after sending it for lab analysis, it was identified as a piece of leather with parchment attached. This discovery fueled excitement as the team considered the possibility of it being part of a historical document or even a notebook. Surprisingly, Craig Tester, who is usually known for his calm and logical approach, suggested that the leather could be connected to William Shakespeare. He proposed the idea that it might be part of a notebook binding tied to the famous playwright. This unexpected theory shocked both fans and the crew, as it was a huge departure from the typical treasure hunt storyline. Each discovery seemed capable of turning the story on its head and challenging long-held ideas.

Beyond his work on the island, Craig Tester is a dedicated family man, and his personal life reflects his values. He and his wife, Rebecca, have built a strong, lasting marriage, which has been a major part of Craig’s life. Rebecca had children from a previous relationship, and Craig became not just a husband, but also a caring father figure to her kids, Jack and Melan, along with their own child, Drake. The Tester family formed a tight bond built on trust and support. Even with the demands of Craig’s work on Oak Island, he’s always been open with his kids about what he’s doing. This honesty has created a sense of teamwork within the family, with Jack, Melan, and Drake often pitching in on the island to help with the treasure hunt.

Drake, the youngest in the Tester family, made several appearances on The Curse of Oak Island, becoming a symbol of their unity and determination to solve the island’s mysteries. Known for his kind and helpful nature, Drake quickly became a fan favorite, both on the show and within his community. Born in 2000, Drake brought joy to the Tester family despite the challenges he faced, especially due to a life-threatening seizure condition that required careful attention throughout his childhood. Despite these obstacles, Drake lived life to the fullest. He attended Children’s House School until the sixth grade, then transferred to Traverse City Central High School. His lively spirit and perseverance left a lasting mark on those around him.

Though he only appeared in a few episodes from seasons 2 to 4, his positivity made him stand out to fans of the show. Drake was well-loved, not only on the show but also in school, where he was admired by teachers and classmates alike for his eagerness to help others. He was actively involved in school activities, from choir to athletics, showing off his versatility. He ran with the cross-country team and joined the track team, all while maintaining his infectious optimism. His role on The Curse of Oak Island may have been small, but Drake’s presence left a deep impression. He was part of the treasure hunt with the Lagina brothers, making him familiar to the show’s dedicated viewers.

Tragically, in 2017, the Tester family received devastating news that forever changed their lives. Drake passed away just a few months shy of his 17th birthday due to complications from his lifelong struggle with epilepsy. His sudden death was a heartbreaking shock to both the Tester family and the Oak Island community. Craig Tester, who was an integral part of the show, was deeply affected by the loss of his son. When Craig was absent from the series, fans noticed, and it was revealed that he was struggling to cope with the devastating news.

Although Drake passed away in March 2017, it wasn’t publicly mentioned until the season 5 premiere of The Curse of Oak Island later that year. The revelation of his death during that emotional episode left viewers, as well as the cast and crew, deeply moved. Craig, heartbroken by the tragedy, made the tough choice to step away from the show after his son’s passing. Drake’s death brought to light a little-known condition tied to epilepsy called sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). This rare but devastating condition occurs when a person with epilepsy suddenly dies with no clear cause, often after a seizure. SUDEP can strike without warning, and while a severe seizure is suspected in Drake’s case, the exact details weren’t disclosed by the family.

The tragedy highlighted the serious risks associated with epilepsy, a neurological condition that causes recurring seizures. Though seizures might only last a short time, their impact can be severe, as Drake’s passing showed. The news of Drake’s death shocked and deeply saddened everyone who knew him, including the Oak Island crew. Described as a loving and joyful person, Drake left a lasting impression on those around him. His absence created a noticeable void, not only for his family but for the entire cast and fans of the show.

Craig Tester, who had always been seen as a steady and charismatic figure on the series, was profoundly changed by the loss of his son. The grief he felt was beyond words, and it was clear that this tragedy had shaken him to his core. Unable to continue with the program immediately after such a painful event, Craig made the difficult decision to leave The Curse of Oak Island for a time and return home to support his wife, Rebecca, as they mourned their beloved son.

In a symbolic move, Craig Tester sold his longtime Michigan residence for $3.75 million in 2019, closing an important chapter of his life. This sale seemed to signify his need for a fresh start after the loss of his son. Shortly after, Craig and his wife, Rebecca, relocated to Traverse City, Michigan, near Marty Lagina’s home. This shift hinted at their desire to find comfort and healing in a new environment.

While Craig considered returning to The Curse of Oak Island during the summer of 2017, the weight of his grief after Drake’s death made it difficult for him, prioritizing the time to heal. He decided to take a temporary hiatus from the show, focusing on his personal recovery. During this tough period, Craig found some relief in the familiar setting of Oak Island. For him, staying on the island helped ease the intense pain of losing Drake.

In a 2018 interview, Craig openly discussed the difficulty of coping with the loss, admitting that he thought about Drake every day and that the year had been incredibly hard. The constant search for answers on Oak Island gave him an outlet, helping him work through his grief at least to some degree. Throughout these dark times, Craig remained close with his stepson Jack Begley. Their bond, rooted in a shared passion for the Oak Island treasure hunt, went beyond work. Jack became a strong support for Craig, and their connection grew deeper as they leaned on each other.

Craig’s resilience shone through, not just in his pursuit of treasure, but also in his determination to protect and support those he cared about, even in the face of unimaginable loss. Craig’s commitment to family and friendship never wavered, and viewers deeply empathized with Craig’s struggle, feeling his pain as he worked through the loss of Drake.

The Oak Island team, in a heartfelt tribute, decided to dedicate the season’s final borehole to Drake. Jack, Drake’s stepbrother, suggested this meaningful gesture, adding a personal touch to the treasure hunt that had become so closely associated with the Lagina brothers and their team. Reflecting on the moment, Jack explained why they named the borehole after Drake using his initials DMT. This choice meant a lot to Jack because it honored his brother and kept his memory alive in the story of Oak Island.

Jack’s heartfelt words showed how much losing Drake affected him and how special their adventures on the island were. Naming the borehole after Drake became a lasting tribute, linking his legacy to the search for treasure on Oak Island. Jack even thought this borehole might help solve the island’s mysteries. He said, “Maybe this is the hole that finds it all,” showing hope and a connection to his brother. This naming not only remembered Drake, but also kept his spirit part of the ongoing treasure hunt.

Fans of The Curse of Oak Island have wondered if Drake’s tragic passing is connected to the island’s rumored curse. According to the legend, lives must be lost before the treasure hidden for over 200 years can be found. Some believe that seven lives must be sacrificed to break the curse. While a previous death happened at The Money Pit in 2015, it wasn’t during an active search, so many question if it counts. The timing of Drake’s death during the treasure hunt adds more mystery for fans, who wonder if it fits the curse’s requirements.

The idea of a curse has always been part of Oak Island’s mystery. While some people think it’s just superstition,