Latest news with #MidFirstBank
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
MidFirst Bank Announces Opening of Seventh Edmond Banking Center
Innovative, Open Concept Design Provides Lifestyle-Oriented Banking Experience Grand Opening Event to be Held on May 10 EDMOND, Okla., May 05, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MidFirst Bank, the nation's largest privately owned bank, today announced the opening of its innovative and seventh Edmond Banking Center. MidFirst invites the Community to attend the Grand Opening event on May 10, which will feature an array of prizes, Head Country BBQ and music. Plus, as the "Official Bank of the Oklahoma City Thunder," MidFirst will have a variety of activities to cheer on the Thunder in the NBA playoffs. This innovative new banking center features an open, modern design unique to the Edmond Community. Guests can enjoy premium beverage services and engage with MidFirst team members in comfortable seating areas or at MidFirst's newest "uTeller" table. The uTeller offers a comfortable and relaxed environment in which customers can complete all banking transactions. MidFirst customers can also use the advanced miTeller ITMs to complete a wide variety of transactions and to engage face-to-face with MidFirst employees virtually seven days a week, including up to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays, offering a convenient and efficient experience. The center's design originates from an effort by MidFirst team members to redefine the customer experience for future banking centers by creating experiences that encourage interaction between guests and team members. Over time, this team developed a format for banking centers that provides a distinct and innovative customer experience that aligns with MidFirst's commitment to providing outstanding service. With additional tenants including a premier coffee shop, retailers and healthcare organizations, the new center seamlessly integrates business and banking into customers' everyday lives. The Edmond location joins two similar concepts opened in 2023 in Phoenix, AZ, near the Arizona State University campus. With more banking locations throughout Edmond than any other bank, MidFirst offers unparalleled accessibility and convenience. "We are thrilled to introduce a new style of banking to the Edmond community that supports enhanced customer convenience, flexibility and experience, all essential elements to the future of banking," said Chap Williams, First Vice President. "The banking center's open and comfortable design creates a uniquely welcoming environment for our customers, whether they need a place to conduct an efficient transaction with our team, convene with friends or work in a beautiful modern environment with excellent amenities. The new Edmond location will offer customers a lifestyle-oriented banking experience centered around connection, education and exceptional service." About MidFirst Bank With $39.5 billion in assets, Oklahoma City-based MidFirst Bank is the largest privately owned bank in the country. MidFirst Bank has banking centers in Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Texas and Utah, and provides commercial lending, wealth management, private banking and mortgage servicing nationwide. MidFirst Bank also operates 1st Century Bank as a division of MidFirst Bank in Southern California. MidFirst Bank demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the greater community through philanthropy, volunteerism and many corporate partnerships and sponsorships. From healthcare to education, and a wide range of civic-oriented and charitable organizations, the bank supports people, organizations and businesses in the markets it serves. For more information about MidFirst Bank and its charitable work, visit View source version on Contacts Derek CaswellMidFirst Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
05-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
MidFirst Bank Announces Opening of Seventh Edmond Banking Center
EDMOND, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MidFirst Bank, the nation's largest privately owned bank, today announced the opening of its innovative and seventh Edmond Banking Center. MidFirst invites the Community to attend the Grand Opening event on May 10, which will feature an array of prizes, Head Country BBQ and music. Plus, as the 'Official Bank of the Oklahoma City Thunder,' MidFirst will have a variety of activities to cheer on the Thunder in the NBA playoffs. This innovative new banking center features an open, modern design unique to the Edmond Community. Guests can enjoy premium beverage services and engage with MidFirst team members in comfortable seating areas or at MidFirst's newest 'uTeller' table. The uTeller offers a comfortable and relaxed environment in which customers can complete all banking transactions. MidFirst customers can also use the advanced miTeller ITMs to complete a wide variety of transactions and to engage face-to-face with MidFirst employees virtually seven days a week, including up to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays, offering a convenient and efficient experience. The center's design originates from an effort by MidFirst team members to redefine the customer experience for future banking centers by creating experiences that encourage interaction between guests and team members. Over time, this team developed a format for banking centers that provides a distinct and innovative customer experience that aligns with MidFirst's commitment to providing outstanding service. With additional tenants including a premier coffee shop, retailers and healthcare organizations, the new center seamlessly integrates business and banking into customers' everyday lives. The Edmond location joins two similar concepts opened in 2023 in Phoenix, AZ, near the Arizona State University campus. With more banking locations throughout Edmond than any other bank, MidFirst offers unparalleled accessibility and convenience. 'We are thrilled to introduce a new style of banking to the Edmond community that supports enhanced customer convenience, flexibility and experience, all essential elements to the future of banking,' said Chap Williams, First Vice President. 'The banking center's open and comfortable design creates a uniquely welcoming environment for our customers, whether they need a place to conduct an efficient transaction with our team, convene with friends or work in a beautiful modern environment with excellent amenities. The new Edmond location will offer customers a lifestyle-oriented banking experience centered around connection, education and exceptional service.' About MidFirst Bank With $39.5 billion in assets, Oklahoma City-based MidFirst Bank is the largest privately owned bank in the country. MidFirst Bank has banking centers in Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Texas and Utah, and provides commercial lending, wealth management, private banking and mortgage servicing nationwide. MidFirst Bank also operates 1st Century Bank as a division of MidFirst Bank in Southern California. MidFirst Bank demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the greater community through philanthropy, volunteerism and many corporate partnerships and sponsorships. From healthcare to education, and a wide range of civic-oriented and charitable organizations, the bank supports people, organizations and businesses in the markets it serves. For more information about MidFirst Bank and its charitable work, visit
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Yahoo
Oklahoma woman — posing as a man — scammed 4 seniors out of a stunning $1,500,000, officials say
In December 2024, a man named Jason Morris persuaded his online girlfriend — a senior woman living in Oklahoma — to send him $120,000 to bring an oil vessel he supposedly owned back to shore. Once the tanker returned, Morris promised, the couple would move in together. When the woman's bank held the funds, likely over fraud concerns, Morris allegedly instructed her to lie — to tell the bank she was buying property, not funding a massive maritime rescue. But Oklahoma officials say there was no oil rig, and there was no Jason Morris. I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Nervous about the stock market in 2025? Find out how you can access this $1B private real estate fund (with as little as $10) Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how According to authorities, the man behind the screen was actually 53-year-old Christine Joan Echohawk. The fake romance was part of a months-long scam that dispossessed four women between the ages of 64 and 79 of $1.5 million. According to a news release from Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, Echohawk created multiple online personas — Jason Morris, Edward Lotts and Glenn Goadard among them — to manipulate her victims into believing they were in committed relationships. Each alias came with an elaborate backstory and an urgent financial need. One woman sold her paid-off home to send more than $600,000 to 'Edward Lotts,' who promised to unlock a $2 million payout and move in with her once the funds were released. Another woman sent $250,000 to 'Glenn Goadard,' who claimed he needed help managing a financial portfolio from Syria. All of the money, officials say, ended up in bank accounts controlled by Echohawk. Authorities allege she laundered the funds through multiple accounts, converting some into cryptocurrency and sending it to unidentified recipients. She also received checks, wire transfers and tens of thousands of dollars in Apple gift cards. The scam fell apart in January 2025 when MidFirst Bank flagged a suspicious $120,000 transaction. The Consumer Protection Unit within Drummond's office launched an investigation and linked the payment — and several others — to Echohawk. Echohawk first claimed she was also a victim, reports NBC News. However, when investigators searched her purse, they found multiple bank cards tied to accounts related to the scams, gift cards, and deposit slips for $110,000. Echohawk now faces four counts of unlawful use of criminal proceeds and one count of violating the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act. If convicted, she could spend up to 62 years in prison and face $260,000 in fines. 'I applaud the work of my Consumer Protection Unit to fight for these victims and to hold accountable their alleged perpetrator," Drummond said in the press release. Read more: The US stock market's 'fear gauge' has exploded — but this 1 'shockproof' asset is up 14% and helping American retirees stay calm. Here's how to own it ASAP According to the FBI, romance scams — also called confidence scams — often target individuals who believe they're in a relationship with someone they've met online. Scammers use emotion, trust and manipulation to convince their victims to send money, gift cards or personal information. Here are a few ways to protect yourself or loved ones from romance scams: Never send money to someone you haven't met in person. No matter how close the relationship feels, treat financial requests from online-only connections with extreme skepticism. Research online friends or partners. Use online searches to verify their image, name or other details, and see if they've been used in other scams Be wary of dramatic backstories. Stories involving oil rigs, military deployments or large inheritances are common red flags that you're being scammed. Don't share personal financial information. Scammers may ask for bank details or offer to send you money — don't fall for it. Watch for inconsistencies. Romance scammers often use stolen photos and recycled scripts. If their story seems too good to be true, it probably is. Listen to warnings. If your bank or another trusted financial advisor warns you of a scam, take a step back. These scams are often very elaborate — designed to trick you. Talk to someone you trust if you're suspicious. If you're unsure about a relationship, confide in a trusted friend or family member. Outside perspectives can help spot red flags you might miss. With awareness and the right amount of skepticism, you can help ensure you and your loved ones don't fall victim to a romance scam. Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
NBC News
10-04-2025
- NBC News
Oklahoma woman scammed $1.5 million out of elderly women posing as men in fake romances, officials say
In December 2024, Oklahoma officials say Jason Morris convinced his online, elderly girlfriend to send him $120,000 to pay for an oil vessel carrying 700,000 barrels in Alaska he allegedly owned to return to shore. Once the rig returned, she and Morris would move in together. The bank held the funds, according to court documents. Morris instructed the woman to contact her bank and lie to them, saying the funds were for purchasing property and not for the alleged oil tanker. But the bank was right to raise suspicion — officials say there was never an Alaskan oil rig. In fact, they say there was never a Jason Morris. 'Scams that target seniors' Christine Joan Echohawk, a 53-year-old woman from Oklahoma, was allegedly the face behind the screen, scamming the older woman out of hundreds of thousands of dollars and laundering the money. Four different women were scammed out of $1.5 million through Echohawk's online romance scams between Sept. 30 and Dec. 26, 2024, according to a release from the office of Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. The women were between the ages of 64 and 79 and all lived outside of Oklahoma. 'These types of scams that target seniors are especially egregious,' Drummond said in the release. The attorney general filed charges against Echohawk on Monday for 'unlawful use of criminal proceeds and using a computer to violate state statutes,' the release said. Echohawk was sent cash, checks, wired funds and even tens of thousands in Apple gift cards. Authorities say Echohawk laundered the funds through various accounts, converting the money into cryptocurrency and sending those crypto payments to an unidentified suspect. Jason Morris, Edward Lotts and Glenn Goadard The alleged scams included fake names — such as Edward Lotts and Glenn Goadard — and elaborate backstories explaining the need for loads of cash, according to a probable cause affidavit. Lotts convinced one woman to send more than $600,000 to pay off a debt that would allow $2 million to be released to "him." When the debt was paid off, Lotts would move in with her, the affidavit stated. The victim sold her paid-off home to send all the money. Goadard contacted another woman claiming to know her since college. The woman was persuaded into paying $250,000 for expenses on a financial portfolio Goadard would send her from Syria. But Echohawk allegedly received all the funds, depositing them into a MidFirst Bank account in which she was the sole signatory, according to the affidavit. The Stillwater MidFirst Bank branch tipped off Drummond's office in January, suspecting Echohawk of senior-fraud activity after a $120,000 payment from one of the victims was intercepted and held, according to the release. The Consumer Protection Unit subsequently investigated. Confidence/romance crimes and Maurice Deniro Defined as a confidence/romance scheme by the FBI, these crimes occur when an individual believes they are in a relationship — whether family, friend or romantic — and manipulated into sending money, financial or personal information, or items of value to a perpetrator. The FBI Internet Crime Report found more than $600 million was lost in 2023 to confidence/romance crimes alone. Local law enforcement confronted Echohawk about the suspected criminal activity in January, but after a short hiatus she allegedly continued to launder the money. Echohawk was voluntarily interviewed at the Pawnee police department on March 26, an interview she opened with asking if it would "all go away" if she paid back the individuals who sent her money, according to the affidavit. But she then claimed it was her who was in an online relationship, that she was receiving cash, checks, wire transfers and other items since 2023 for an individual under the alias of Maurice Dinero, the affidavit said. Echohawk claimed there were "red flags" about her situation and had concerns she would be arrested. When Echohawk consented to having her purse searched, the affidavit said, there were multiple bank cards associated with accounts she allegedly laundered money through, a MidFirst Bank deposit slip for $110,000 and several Apple gift cards found with the barcodes revealed. There was also $500 in cash, which Echohawk said was from individuals sending money to the alias, but she had not yet deposited. Echohawk faces four counts of unlawful use of criminal proceeds and one count of violating the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act, which could carry up to 62 years in prison and $260,000 in fines, the release said. She has been held in Pawnee County Jail since Monday, according to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office records. An attorney was not listed and it's unclear if she has legal representation.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Yahoo
Pawnee woman accused of laundering of $1.5M from elderly women in online romance scam
The Oklahoma Attorney General's Office filed charges Monday against a Pawnee woman for allegedly laundering an estimated $1.5 million in funds through online romance scams. Christine Joan Echohawk, 54, was arrested and booked into the Pawnee County jail Monday on complaints of unlawful use of criminal proceeds and violations of the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act. Online court records did not list an attorney for her. Echohawk is accused of laundering money from multiple victims living in Florida, Texas, and Utah between Sept. 30 and Dec. 26, as detailed in a probable cause affidavit. According to agents with the Oklahoma Attorney General's office, the victims were elderly women ranging in age from 64 to 79. They thought they were sending money to a man with whom they believed they were dating online, according to the affidavit. "These types of scams that target seniors are especially egregious," Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond said in a news release Tuesday. "I applaud the work of my Consumer Protection Unit to fight for these victims and to hold accountable their alleged perpetrator." More: Nigerian man in OKC sentenced in romance scam involving Alabama woman According to the affidavit, Drummond's office received a referral from MidFirst Bank in January of suspected senior-fraud activity after the bank intercepted a $120,000 transfer from one of the alleged victims. That woman sent $120,000 to Echohawk after allegedly being told the money would pay for fuel to help the male subject's Alaskan tanker, supposedly carrying 700,000 oil barrels, return to shore, according to the affidavit. Another woman was persuaded to pay $250,000 to Echohawk to allegedly help a male subject pay off expenses for a financial portfolio in Syria, also detailed in the affidavit. And another woman sold her paid-off home so that she could send $600,000 to Echohawk, according to the affidavit. The victims sent Apple gift cards, cash and cashiers' checks, and wired money to accounts owned by Echohawk at MidFirst Bank, investigators said. More: Jail trust contracts juvenile housing with Pawnee County Sheriff's Office In January 2024, Pawnee police interviewed Echohawk about suspected criminal activity. After being told she was laundering funds, Echohawk allegedly stopped depositing and moving the funds for a short time, before deciding to start back up again, according to the affidavit. Echohawk told police that she was receiving and transferring the funds on behalf of the male subject, with whom she also believed herself to be in a relationship romantically, according to the affidavit. Echohawk told investigators she would deposit and transfer the funds through various accounts, converting most of the funds to cryptocurrency, and then send the crypto payments to an account under the male subject's name, as detailed in the affidavit. In a news release Tuesday, the AG's office said that suspect has not been identified. Investigators also wrote that Echohawk said she used some of the funds that had not been converted to cryptocurrency for personal gain. They also said she admitted to lying to various banks about the source of the money she'd received, saying that they were from people who'd owed money to her late husband, according to the affidavit. During an interview with investigators last month cited in the affidavit, Echohawk said she has an associate's degree in business and various nursing certifications. She also asked investigators if the issue would "all go away" if she were to pay back the people who'd sent her money, according to the affidavit. She now faces five felony counts that could carry a combined 24 to 62 years in prison and fines of up to $260,000, according to the AG's office. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Pawnee woman charged in alleged $1.5 million laundering scam
