Isaiah Williams, Former Investment Advisor, Arrested After Allegedly Defrauding NFL Star of $2.6M

Former Miami Dolphins star Reshad Jones has reportedly lost about $2.6 million in an alleged fraud by his one-time financial advisor. The formeradvisor, Isaiah T. Williams Jr. (CRD#: 6211219), is accused of siphoning millions from Jones’ accounts under the guise of managing his finances. Williams has since been barred from the securities industry by regulators. Jones is now fighting to recover his lost funds.

Williams Arrested on Grand Theft and Money Laundering

Jones entrusted Williams, a former Merrill Lynch financial advisor, with overseeing his money. From early 2022 through early 2024, Williams allegedly made scores of unauthorized withdrawals from Jones’ accounts, diverting roughly $1.6 million to fund his personal expenses and lavish lifestyle. Another $1.0 million was allegedly laundered through an associate before the fraud was uncovered.

Florida authorities arrested Williams in late June 2025 on grand theft and money laundering charges. Jones filed a lawsuit against Merrill Lynch, arguing the firm failed to supervise its vice president, enabling him to exploit Jones.

FINRA Bar and Investor Red Flags

Even before the criminal case, Williams faced serious repercussions in the financial industry. In April 2025, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) – the brokerage industry regulator – barred Williams from associating with any FINRA member firm. This is the most severe penalty FINRA can impose on a broker or advisor.

Being barred means Williams can no longer legally work as a stockbroker or financial advisor at any brokerage firm, effectively ending his career. It’s akin to a doctor losing their medical license. FINRA typically uses such a sanction only for egregious misconduct or when a broker refuses to cooperate with an investigation. In Williams’ case, regulators say he refused to provide information, leading to the permanent bar.

Multiple Customer Complaints

Williams’ FINRA BrokerCheck report (FINRA’s public database of broker records) shows multiple customer complaints – formal disputes – on his record. In late 2024, for example, one client accused Williams of misappropriating funds, and around that same time he resigned from Merrill Lynch amid internal misconduct allegations.

Each such complaint on a broker’s record is a major red flag to current and potential investors – a sign that other clients might have been harmed as well.

Steps for Investors to Recover Losses

Investors who suspect they have lost money due to a financial advisor’s fraud or negligence do have recourse.

FINRA Arbitration

One common path is to file a claim through FINRA arbitration, where harmed investors can seek compensation from the broker’s firm. Brokerage firms like Merrill Lynch may be held liable if they failed to properly supervise an advisor. A successful arbitration claim or lawsuit can help an investor recoup their losses.

Contact an Attorney

Another step is to consult with a securities and investment fraud attorney. A lawyer can evaluate the case and help pursue recovery of the losses.

Levin Papantonio’s securities fraud lawyers are currently investigating potential claims related to Williams’ conduct. They are examining whether Merrill Lynch or other parties can be held responsible for these losses.

This case is a stark reminder that even financially savvy people – including high-earning athletes – can fall victim to advisor misconduct. Recovering losses may require legal action, but holding wrongdoers and their firms accountable can provide both financial relief and justice.