A Dallas man who posed as a concert promoter and bilked investors out of more than $1.1 million was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison.
Carlos Desean Goodspeed, 45, pleaded guilty to wire fraud in October 2025 following a 2024 indictment. U.S. District Judge Ed Kinkeade imposed the sentence on February 18, 2026, and ordered Goodspeed to pay nearly $1.2 million in restitution to 17 victims, according to U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
Goodspeed ran a business called “Straight Like That Entertainment” and falsely claimed to promote events featuring artists such as Tyler, the Creator, Ludacris, Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Bad Bunny, and Future, none of whom had any involvement or knowledge of his activities.
In one instance detailed in plea documents, Goodspeed convinced a victim to wire him $180,000 under agreements to buy tickets and suites for Tyler, the Creator concerts, promising returns after resale. Instead, he spent the money on personal expenses, including rent on an upscale apartment, high-end retail purchases, airline fees, and hotels, and used some to repay other investors to hide the fraud.
Three victims spoke at the sentencing about their losses. One said she invested part of an inheritance to cover medical bills for a relative with cancer, but after Goodspeed failed to repay her, she relied on loans and credit cards for funeral costs when the family member died.
“Victims are often defrauded of life savings and suffer devastating economic and personal harm because of investment fraud schemes like this one,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Seeking lengthy prison time for defendants and restitution judgments on behalf of those victimized in these cases remain top priorities for my office.”
“The FBI remains committed to investigating those who take advantage of our communities through investment fraud schemes. We encourage the public to thoroughly research investment opportunities and to contact us immediately if they suspect fraud,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock.
Goodspeed’s pretrial release was revoked in July 2025 after a magistrate judge found probable cause that he had violated conditions by committing further fraud and soliciting additional investments. He has remained in custody.
The FBI’s Dallas Field Office led the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Renee Hunter handling the prosecution.
