Minister Accused of $2M Affinity Fraud Scheme

Winston Batino, a former minister at the Chicago Church of Christ's North Ministry Center in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is facing federal wire fraud and tax evasion charges. Prosecutors allege that between February 2020 and May 2025, Batino defrauded around 40 individuals, primarily congregants, of at least $2 million. He is accused of convincing victims their money would be invested in non-existent luxury rehabilitation facilities.

Instead of legitimate investments, the funds were allegedly used to pay earlier investors and cover personal expenses, including gambling. A $46,500 wire transfer in January 2025 is central to the wire fraud charge. The church dismissed and disfellowshipped Batino in May 2025 after learning of the alleged scheme. An independent investigation subsequently cleared the institution of any involvement.

This alleged scheme exemplifies affinity fraud, which targets specific community groups by exploiting trust. Such frauds often involve Ponzi or pyramid schemes, creating a false impression of returns until the structure inevitably collapses. Batino's attorney stated they are addressing the serious situation in court.