A Cumming woman, Julie Edwars, is one of three Drive Planning executives sentenced in federal court for their part in what prosecutors describe as a “massive” Ponzi scheme that defrauded more than 2,000 investors out of nearly $400 million.
Todd Burkhalter, founder and CEO of the Georgia‑based financial advisory firm, received a 20‑year federal prison sentence. Prosecutors said Burkhalter directed a years‑long scheme built around two investment programs marketed as simple, high‑return opportunities.
David Bradford, Drive Planning’s chief operating officer, was sentenced to four years and three months for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was ordered to pay more than $4.2 million in restitution. Edwards, the company’s chief administrative office, was sentenced to two years for laundering proceeds of the scheme and ordered to pay $630,000 in restitution.
A court‑appointed receiver is working to recover assets and repay victims.