A Malibu-based tech CEO convicted of a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme has been posting images of his lavish lifestyle on Instagram from Bavaria, Germany, months after failing to appear for a court hearing and fleeing the United States. Bernhard Eugen Fritsch, 64, faces a 15-year prison sentence and has been actively sharing updates from Germany, including photos of luxury items and scenic Alpine views.
Meanwhile, Fritsch's girlfriend, actress Lucinda Manera, 63, has pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact. According to federal prosecutors, Manera admitted to lying to the FBI about her communications with Fritsch and to providing financial support for his escape after he fled to Mexico on June 2, 2025. She authorized payments totaling approximately $7,475 to an individual housing Fritsch in Mexico and for his hotel expenses. Manera also allegedly researched travel routes for Fritsch to reach Germany, which typically does not extradite its citizens.
Manera is scheduled for sentencing on October 5 and faces up to five years in federal prison. Her plea agreement details her role in assisting Fritsch following his conviction in absentia.
Fritsch was found guilty in April 2025 of wire fraud related to his company, StarClub Inc., which had promised investors its StarSite app would transform celebrity endorsements on social media. Prosecutors stated that Fritsch misled investors out of more than $20 million by fabricating company deals and revenue figures. Instead of investing the funds, Fritsch allegedly used the money for personal enrichment, including the purchase of luxury vehicles, renovations to his Malibu mansion, and upgrades to his yacht.
Federal authorities seized some of Fritsch's assets, including his luxury cars and yacht. Following his flight and conviction, Fritsch was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison and ordered to pay over $26.8 million in restitution, along with a $35,000 fine. His appeal was dismissed due to his fugitive status, though the court record indicates he could seek to reactivate it if he surrenders by the court's deadline.