Hollywood director Carl Rinsch sentenced to prison for defrauding Netflix of $11 million
By
Jacob Stolworthy
Summary
Hollywood director Carl Rinsch has been sentenced to over two years in prison for defrauding Netflix of $11 million (£8.2m) in 2018. Rinsch received the funds to produce a 12-episode sci-fi series called White Horse (later Conquest), but instead squandered the money on personal expenses, luxury items, and failed investments. Despite a letter from Keanu Reeves asking for leniency, Rinsch was convicted of wire fraud and money laundering in December 2025. The never-finished show was meant to be a major Netflix project but became one of the streaming giant's most notable fraud cases.
Source
Twitter / XHollywood director Carl Rinsch sentenced to prison for defrauding Netflix of $11 millionindependent.co.ukKey quotes
· 3 pulledI did not know the details of the case, but I hoped the judge would consider leniency
The defendant appeared to squander millions of dollars given to him by Netflix
Carl Rinsch was found guilty of wire fraud and money laundering in December 2025
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