NEXT EPISODE OF CNBC'S "AMERICAN GREED" AIRS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15TH AT 10PM ET

(ALL TIMES ARE ET)

The program will repeat at 1AM ET the same night.

FOR TV HIGHLIGHTS CONSIDERATION:

American Greed” Episode 54 – Kevin Cohen: Baby Broker Scam:

For many infertile couples, attorney Kevin Cohen is a blessing. Cohen claims his experience as an adopted child motivates him to found Long Island based Adoption Annex to help couples seeking to start a family through adoption. In 2008, Cohen answers the prayers of 13 families when he tells them that a baby is on the way. He takes an average of $25,000 from each. But, in truth, the baby does not exist. The sonograms, adoption records, and letters from hospitals and doctors that Cohen presents to families are all fake.

Cohen’s Adoption Annex closes its doors in 2008, and in 2009, he is charged with grand larceny, fraud and forgery. Despite overwhelming evidence, Cohen decides to go to trial and represent himself. A jury doesn’t buy Cohen’s defense and finds him guilty, imposing a sentence of 10 to 20 years and $300,000 in restitution. At sentencing, Cohen apologizes for his actions and blames his actions on mental illness.
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