Maine Securities Administrator Judith Shaw is seeking the public's help in locating Robert J. Howarth, who has been indicted in two counties on charges of securities fraud and theft by deception. Howarth has used the aliases of Robert Chiofolo, Robert Kim Lee, and Robert Sachs.

"Mr. Howarth came to Belfast in 2009 claiming to be a successful businessman who made money by selling clothing overseas," Administrator Shaw said, in a June 24 news release. "He used various tactics to convince investors that he was operating a legitimate business venture; however, his investment appears to have been a scam resulting in alleged investor losses in excess of $500,000. We are requesting the public's assistance in locating Mr. Howarth."

Warrants for Howarth's arrest have been issued in Waldo and York counties. Anyone with information related to his whereabouts is encouraged to contact Jim Frechette, investigator at the Maine Office of Securities, at (207) 624-8551 or (877) 624-8551.

Shaw also reminds potential investors to always thoroughly research investment offers and to contact the Office of Securities to check an adviser, salesperson or investment, or to obtain other information related to investing, by calling (877) 624-8551, visiting investors.maine.gov, or writing to Maine Office of Securities, 121 SHS, Augusta, ME 04333-0121.