SEC v. PRAGER METIS CPAS; and AND PRAGER METIS CPAS LLP, No. 1:24-cv-07025, Southern District of Florida (Sept. 18, 2024)
raw: SEC v. PRAGER METIS CPAs
SEC v. PRAGER METIS CPAs, No. 1:24-cv-07025 (Sept. 18, 2024)
Prager Metis CPAs, LLC and Prager Metis CPAs LLP consented to SEC final judgments involving permanent injunctions and $1,205,000 in total monetary remedies for auditor independence violations.
The SEC obtained final judgments against Prager Metis CPAs, LLC and Prager Metis CPAs LLP for violating auditor independence rules and aiding and abetting various securities law violations. Prager Metis LLC agreed to pay $1,180,214.83, consisting of $172,728.19 in disgorgement, $27,486.64 in interest, and a $980,000 civil penalty. Prager Metis LLP consented to pay $24,785.17, comprising $3,868.90 in disgorgement, $916.2cent in interest, and a $20,000 civil penalty.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) moved for entry of final judgments against accounting firms Prager Metis CPAs, LLC and Prager Metis CPAs LLP. The litigation alleged that the firms violated auditor independence rules and aided and abetted violations of the Exchange Act and the Advisers Act. Both defendants consented to the proposed judgments, which include permanent injunctive relief against future regulatory violations. The total monetary remedy awarded to the Commission is $1,205,000. Specifically, Prager Metis LLC is ordered to pay $1,180,214.83, which includes a $980,000 civil penalty, $172,728.19 in disgorgement, and $27,486.64 in prejudgment interest. Prager Metis LLP is ordered to pay $24,785.17, consisting of a $20,000 civil penalty, $3,868.90 in disgorgement, and $916.27 in interest. This settlement concludes the Commission's litigation against the two defendants.
Extracted insights
- $1.21M $1,205,000 $1M–$10M
- $1.18M $1,180,214 $1M–$10M
- $980K $980,000 $100K–$1M
- $200K $200,214 $100K–$1M
- $173K $172,728 $100K–$1M
- $27K $27,486 $10K–$100K
- $25K $24,785 $10K–$100K
- $20K $20,000 $10K–$100K
- $20K $20,000 $10K–$100K
- $5K $4,785 <$10K
- $4K $3,868 <$10K
- $916 $916.27 <$10K
- company defendants prager metis llc and prager metis llp
- company final judgments against prager metis cpas, llc and prager metis cpas llp
- Securities And Exchange Commission moves for entry final judgments against Prager Metis CPAs, LLC and Prager Metis CPAs LLP
- Defendants Prager Metis LLC and Prager Metis LLP have consented to entry of the proposed Final Judgments
- Proposed Final Judgments include permanent injunctive relief and monetary remedies totaling $1,205,000
- Court denied Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss
- Commission filed its Complaint against Prager Metis LLC and Prager Metis LLP on September 29, 2023
- Commission’s Staff was seeking settlement authorization from the Five-Member Commission
- Proposed Final Judgment restrains and enjoins Prager Metis LLC from violating Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X and Rule 17a-5(i) of the Exchange Act
- Proposed Final Judgment restrains and enjoins Prager Metis LLC from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a), 15(d), and 17(a) of the Exchange Act
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
_______________________________________________/
PLAINTIFF’S UNOPPOSED MOTION FOR ENTRY OF FINAL JUDGMENTS
AGAINST DEFENDANTS PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
AND PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP
Plaintiff Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) moves for entry of final
judgments against Defendants Prager Metis CPAs, LLC (“Prager Metis LLC”) and Prager Metis
CPAs LLP (“Prager Metis LLP”) (collectively, “Defendants”). The Defendants have consented
to the entry of the proposed Final Judgments which include permanent injunctive relief and
monetary remedies collectively totaling $1,205,000. See Consents attached as Exhibits 1 and 2
and proposed Final Judgments attached as Exhibits 3 and 4. The Court’s entry of the proposed
Final Judgments will conclude the Commission’s litigation of this case against the Defendants.
I. Relevant Procedural History
On September 29, 2023, the Commission filed its Complaint against Prager Metis LLC and
Prager Metis LLP, alleging, among other things, the affiliated accounting and auditing firms
violated the Commission’s auditor independence rules. See Complaint, DE 1. On May 29, 2024,
the Court denied Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss. See Order, DE 32. On August 1, 2024 and
September 3, 2024, the parties informed the Court that they were communicating regarding
2
potential settlement of this matter and that the Commission’s staff was seeking settlement
authorization from the five-member Commission. See Motions, DE 36 and DE 39.
II. Injunctive Relief
The proposed Final Judgments provide for the entry of injunctive relief and monetary
relief, among other things. Regarding injunctive relief, the proposed Final Judgments comply with
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d), which provides that “[e]very order granting an injunction
. . . must: (A) state the reasons why it issued; (B) state its terms specifically; and (C) describe in
reasonable detail—and not by referring to the complaint or other document—the act or acts sought
to be restrained or required.” See Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(d). Eleventh Circuit law likewise requires that
judgments for injunctive relief describe in reasonable detail the acts or conduct sought to be
restrained. SEC v. Goble, 682 F.3d 934, 951-52 (11th Cir. 2012). The Goble court, while
questioning whether merely reciting the language of a statute in an injunction adequately informs
a defendant of the prohibited conduct, also explained that “a broad, but properly drafted injunction,
which largely uses the statutory or regulatory language may satisfy the specificity requirement of
Rule 65(d) so long as it clearly lets the defendant know what he is ordered to do or not do.” Id. at
952.
As to Prager Metis LLC, the proposed Final Judgment permanently restrains and enjoins
Prager Metis LLC from violating Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)] and
Rule 17a-5(i) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-
5(i)]; from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a), 15(d), and 17(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a), 78o(d), and 78q(a)] and Exchange Act Rules 13a-1, 13a-11, 13a-13, 15d-1,
15d-13, and 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-1, 240.15d-13, and
240.17a-5]; and from aiding and abetting violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers
3
Act of 1940 (“Advisers Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R.
§ 275.206(4)-2]. See Ex. 3.
As to Prager Metis LLP, the proposed Final Judgment permanently restrains and enjoins
Prager Metis LLP from violating Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], and
from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a) and 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C.
§§ 78m(a) and 78o(d)] and Exchange Act Rules 13a-1, 13a-13, 15d-1, and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§
240.13a-1, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-1, and 240.15d-13]. See Ex. 4.
Both proposed Final Judgments (Exhibits 3 and 4) conform with Goble because the
statutory language “clearly lets the defendant[s] know what [they are] ordered to do or not.” See
id. Furthermore, the proposed Final Judgments include injunctive language that prohibits conduct
directly tied to the allegations in the Complaint, and sufficiently notifies Defendant of the
prohibited conduct. Additionally, the Defendants have consented to the injunctive language
contained in the proposed Final Judgments. See Ex. 1-2.
III. Additional Relief
As additional relief, Prager Metis LLC has consented to the proposed Final Judgment
awarding the Commission disgorgement of $172,728.19, plus prejudgment interest thereon in the
amount of $27,486.64, and a civil penalty of $980,000. See Ex. 1 and 3. As to Prager Metis LLP,
it has consented to the proposed Final Judgment awarding the Commission disgorgement of
$3,868.90, plus prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $916.27, and a $20,000 civil penalty.
See Ex. 2 and 4.
IV. Conclusion
The Commission respectfully requests that the Court enter the proposed Final Judgments,
which the Defendants have consented to, and which will fully resolve this pending matter.
4
RULE 7.1.A.3 CERTIFICATE OF CONFERRAL
Pursuant to Southern District of Florida Local Rule 7.1.A.3, undersigned counsel has
conferred with counsel for Defendants Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, and Prager Metis CPAs LLP,
who does not oppose this motion.
Dated: September 17, 2024
Respectfully submitted,
By: s/ Christine Nestor
Christine Nestor, Esq.
Senior Trial Counsel
Florida Bar No. 597211
Direct Dial: (305) 982-6367
Email: [email protected]
Brian Lechich, Esq.
Trial Counsel
Florida Bar No. 84419
Direct Dial: (305) 510-9133
Email: [email protected]
A
TTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
801 Brickell Avenue, Suite 1950
Miami, Florida 33131
Telephone: (305) 982-6300
Facsimile: (305) 536-4154
5
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that on September 17, 2024, I electronically filed the foregoing
with the Clerk of Court by using the CM/ECF system, which will send a notice of electronic filing
to counsel of record, or service will be by means denoted below, upon the below list of counsel.
By: s/ Christine Nestor
Christine Nestor
SERVICE LIST
Stephen L. Cohen, Esq.
Paul J. Bello, Esq.
Jeremy Rozansky, Esq.
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K. Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
(202) 736-8000
Lara Shalov Mehraban, Esq.
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
[email protected]
(212) 839-5300
Via CM/ECF
Counsel for Defendants
EXHIBIT 1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO.1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CP As, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CP As LLP,
Defendants.
I
---------------------'
CONSENT OF DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC TO FINAL JUDGMENT
1. Defendant Prager Metis CP As, LLC ("Defendant") acknowledges having been
served with the complaint in this action, enters a general appearance, and admits the Court's
jurisdiction over Defendant and over the subject matter of this action.
2. Without admitting or denying the allegations of the complaint ( except as to personal
and subject matter jurisdiction, which Defendant admits), Defendant hereby consents to the entry
of the final Judgment in the form attached hereto (the "Final Judgment") and incorporated by
reference herein, which, among other things:
(a) permanently restrains and enjoins Defendant from violating, directly or indirectly,
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)] and Rule 17a-5(i) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act") [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)];
from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a), 15(d), and 17(a) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a), 78o(d), and 78q(a)] and Exchange Act Rules
13a-1, 13a-11, 13a-13, 15d-l, 15d-13, and 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-l, 240.13a-
1
11, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-l, 240.15d-13, and 240.l 7a-5]; and from aiding and
abetting violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
("Advisers Act") [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R.
§ 275.206(4)-2];
(b) orders Defendant to pay disgorgement in the amount of $172,728.19, plus
prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $27,486.64, for a total of
$200,214.83; and
( c) orders Defendant to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $980,000, pursuant to
Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)] and Section 209(e)
of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-9(e)].
3. Defendant agrees that it shall not seek or accept, directly or indirectly,
reimbursement or indemnification from any source, including, but not limited to, payment made
pursuant to any insurance policy, with regard to any civil penalty amounts that Defendant pays
pursuant to the Final Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof
are added to a distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors. Defendant further
agrees that it shall not claim, assert, or apply for a tax deduction or tax credit with regard to any
federal, state, or local tax for any penalty amounts that Defendant pays pursuant to the Final
Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof are added to a
distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors.
4. Defendant waives the entry of findings of fact and conclusions of law pursuant to
Rule 52 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
5. Defendant waives the right, if any, to a jury trial and to appeal from the entry of the
Final Judgment.
2
6. Defendant enters into this Consent voluntarily and represents that no threats, offers,
promises, or inducements of any kind have been made by the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission") or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission to induce Defendant to enter into this Consent.
7. Defendant agrees that this Consent shall be incorporated into the Final Judgment
with the same force and effect as if fully set forth therein.
8. Defendant will not oppose the enforcement of the Final Judgment on the ground, if
any exists, that it fails to comply with Rule 65(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and
hereby waives any objection based thereon.
9. Defendant waives service of the Final Judgment and agrees that entry of the Final
Judgment by the Court and filing with the Clerk of the Court will constitute notice to Defendant
of its terms and conditions. Defendant further agrees to provide counsel for the Commission,
within thirty days after the Final Judgment is filed with the Clerk of the Court, with an affidavit or
declaration stating that Defendant has received and read a copy of the Final Judgment.
10. Consistent with 17 C.F.R. § 202.5(f), this Consent resolves only the claims asserted
against Defendant in this civil proceeding. Defendant acknowledges that no promise or
representation has been made by the Commission or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission with regard to any criminal liability that may have arisen or may
arise from the facts underlying this action or immunity from any such criminal liability. Defendant
waives any claim of Double Jeopardy based upon the settlement of this proceeding, including the
imposition of any remedy or civil penalty herein. Defendant further acknowledges that the Court's
entry of a permanent injunction may have collateral consequences under federal or state law and
the rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations, licensing boards, and other regulatory
3
organizations. Such collateral consequences include, but are not limited to, a statutory
disqualification with respect to membership or participation in, or association with a member of,
a self-regulatory organization. This statutory disqualification has consequences that are separate
from any sanction imposed in an administrative proceeding. In addition, in any disciplinary
proceeding before the Commission based on the entry of the injunction in this action, Defendant
understands that it shall not be permitted to contest the factual allegations of the complaint in this
action.
11. Defendant understands and agrees to comply with the terms of 17 C.F .R.
§ 202.S(e), which provides in part that it is the Commission's policy "not to permit a defendant or
respondent to consent to a judgment or order that imposes a sanction while denying the allegations
in the complaint or order for proceedings," and "a refusal to admit the allegations is equivalent to
a denial, unless the defendant or respondent states that he neither admits nor denies the
allegations." As part of Defendant's agreement to comply with the terms of Section 202.S(e),
Defendant: (i) will not take any action or make or permit to be made any public statement denying,
directly or indirectly, any allegation in the complaint or creating the impression that the complaint
is without factual basis; (ii) will not make or permit to be made any public statement to the effect
that Defendant does not admit the allegations of the complaint, or that this Consent contains no
admission of the allegations, without also stating that Defendant does not deny the allegations; and
(iii) upon the filing of this Consent, Defendant hereby withdraws any papers filed in this action to
the extent that they deny any allegation in the complaint. If Defendant breaches this agreement,
the Commission may petition the Court to vacate the Final Judgment and restore this action to its
active docket. Nothing in this paragraph affects Defendant's: (i) testimonial obligations; or (ii)
4
right to take legal or factual positions m litigation or other legal proceedings m which the
Commission is not a party.
12. Defendant hereby waives any rights under the Equal Access to Justice Act, the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, or any other provision of law to
seek from the United States, or any agency, or any official of the United States acting in his or her
official capacity, directly or indirectly, reimbursement of attorney's fees or other fees, expenses,
or costs expended by Defendant to defend against this action. For these purposes, Defendant
agrees that Defendant is not the prevailing party in this action since the parties have reached a
good faith settlement.
13. Defendant agrees that the Commission may present the Final Judgment to the Court
for signature and entry without further notice.
14. Defendant agrees that this Court shall retain jurisdiction over this matter for the
purpose of enforcing the terms of the Final Judgment.
Dated: 8/26/2024
PRAG~R METIS CPAs, L~ C
By: ~· u{. dzu._
Lori . Roth
Global Managing Partner
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
On August 26, 2024, Lori A. Roth, a person known to me, personally appeared
before me, and acknowledged executing the foregoing Consent with full authority to do so
on behalfof Prager Melis CPAs, LLC as its~ing 2'· ~,ft;__,
Notary Public
Commission expires:
5
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No.01PE5053131 ~
Qualified !n Kings County
20
(?{.{,
Commission Expires February 18, -
Stephen L. Cohen
Paul J. Bello
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K St. NW Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 736-8000
Fax: (202) 736-8711
[email protected]
[email protected]
Lara Shalov Mehraban
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 839-5300
Fax: (212) 839-5599
[email protected]
Attorneys for Defendant
6
PRAGER METIS CP AS, LLC
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
The undersigned, Lori A. Roth, in her capacity as Global Managing Partner of Prager
Metis CPAs, LLC ("Prager Metis LLC"), a Limited Liability Company, acting pursuant to her
authority thereunder, does hereby certify:
I . That, Lori A. Roth, an Officer of Prager Metis LLC, is at the date hereof authorized to act
on behalf of Prager Metis LLC, and in her sole discretion, to negotiate, approve, and make the
offer of settlement of Prager Metis LLC, attached hereto, to the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission (" Commission" or " SEC") in connection with the pending action SEC v.
Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, et al., Case No. 23-cv-23723-RNS (S.D. Fla.); and the aforementioned
Officer be and hereby is authorized to undertake such actions as she may deem necessary and
advisable, including the execution of such documentation as may be required by the
Commission, in order to carry out the foregoing. I further certify that the aforesaid delegation has
not been amended or revoked in any respect and remains in full force and effect.
2. That pursuant to Prager Metis LLC' s governing documents and a meeting of Prager
Metis LLC' s Executive Committee on August 8, 2024, the undersigned has the power and
authority to execute this Delegation on behalf of Prager Metis LLC, and that the undersigned has
so executed this Delegation this 26th day of August, 2024.
STATE OF [INSERT] )J~ Yo<'k. }
~;:g~, ~~s~
Lori '.A.. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
} SS:
COUNTY OF [INSERT]~ '/orf._}
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this 26th day of August, 2024, by
Lori A. Roth, who _is personally known to me or~-who has produced a [STATE] driver's
dLntif✓-an~noath.
Notary Public
State of[INSERT]
Commission Number:
Commission Expiration:
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No.01PE5053131 gt
Qualified in Kings County
Commission Expires February 18, 20
EXHIBIT 2
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
I
------------------
CONSENT OF DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP TO FINAL JUDGMENT
1. Defendant Prager Metis CP As LLP ("Defendant") acknowledges having been
served with the complaint in this action, enters a general appearance, and admits the Court's
jurisdiction over Defendant and over the subject matter of this action.
2. Without admitting or denying the allegations of the complaint ( except as to personal
and subject matter jurisdiction, which Defendant admits), Defendant hereby consents to the entry
of the final Judgment in the form attached hereto (the "Final Judgment") and incorporated by
reference herein, which, among other things:
(a) permanently restrains and enjoins Defendant from violating, directly or indirectly,
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], and from aiding and
abetting violations of Sections 13(a) and 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 ("Exchange Act") [15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a) and 78o(d)] and Exchange Act Rules
13a-1, 13a-13, 15d-1, and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-l, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-
l, and 240.15d-13];
1
(b) orders Defendant to pay disgorgement in the amount of $3,868.90, plus
prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of$916.27, for a total of$4,785.l 7; and
( c) orders Defendant to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $20,000, pursuant to
Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)].
3. Defendant agrees that it shall not seek or accept, directly or indirectly,
reimbursement or indemnification from any source, including, but not limited to, payment made
pursuant to any insurance policy, with regard to any civil penalty amounts that Defendant pays
pursuant to the Final Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof
are added to a distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors. Defendant further
agrees that it shall not claim, assert, or apply for a tax deduction or tax credit with regard to any
federal, state, or local tax for any penalty amounts that Defendant pays pursuant to the Final
Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof are added to a
distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors.
4. Defendant waives the entry of findings of fact and conclusions of law pursuant to
Rule 52 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
5. Defendant waives the right, if any, to a jury trial and to appeal from the entry of the
Final Judgment.
6. Defendant enters into this Consent voluntarily and represents that no threats, offers,
promises, or inducements of any kind have been made by the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission") or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission to induce Defendant to enter into this Consent.
7. Defendant agrees that this Consent shall be incorporated into the Final Judgment
with the same force and effect as if fully set forth therein.
2
8. Defendant will not oppose the enforcement of the Final Judgment on the ground, if
any exists, that it fails to comply with Rule 65(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and
hereby waives any objection based thereon.
9. Defendant waives service of the Final Judgment and agrees that entry of the Final
Judgment by the Court and filing with the Clerk of the Court will constitute notice to Defendant
of its terms and conditions. Defendant further agrees to provide counsel for the Commission,
within thirty days after the Final Judgment is filed with the Clerk of the Court, with an affidavit or
declaration stating that Defendant has received and read a copy of the Final Judgment.
10. Consistent with 17 C.F .R. § 202.5(:t), this Consent resolves only the claims asserted
against Defendant in this civil proceeding. Defendant acknowledges that no promise or
representation has been made by the Commission or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission with regard to any criminal liability that may have arisen or may
arise from the facts underlying this action or immunity from any such criminal liability. Defendant
waives any claim of Double Jeopardy based upon the settlement of this proceeding, including the
imposition of any remedy or civil penalty herein. Defendant further acknowledges that the Court's
entry of a permanent injunction may have collateral consequences under federal or state law and
the rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations, licensing boards, and other regulatory
organizations. Such collateral consequences include, but are not limited to, a statutory
disqualification with respect to membership or participation in, or association with a member of,
a self-regulatory organization. This statutory disqualification has consequences that are separate
from any sanction imposed in an administrative proceeding. In addition, in any disciplinary
proceeding before the Commission based on the entry of the injunction in this action, Defendant
3
understands that it shall not be permitted to contest the factual allegations of the complaint in this
action.
1 1. Defendant understands and agrees to comply with the terms of 17 C.F .R.
§ 202.S(e), which provides in part that it is the Commission's policy "not to permit a defendant or
respondent to consent to a judgment or order that imposes a sanction while denying the allegations
in the complaint or order for proceedings," and "a refusal to admit the allegations is equivalent to
a denial. unless the defendant or respondent states that he neither admits nor denies the
allegations." As part of Defendant's agreement to comply with the terms of Section 202.S(e),
Defendant: (i) will not take any action or make or permit to be made any public statement denying,
directly or indirectly, any allegation in the complaint or creating the impression that the complaint
is without factual basis; (ii) will not make or permit to be made any public statement to the effect
that Defendant does not admit the allegations of the complaint, or that this Consent contains no
admission of the allegations, without also stating that Defendant does not deny the allegations; and
(iii) upon the filing of this Consent, Defendant hereby withdraws any papers filed in this action to
the extent that they deny any allegation in the complaint. If Defendant breaches this agreement,
the Commission may petition the Court to vacate the Final Judgment and restore this action to its
active docket. Nothing in this paragraph affects Defendant's: (i) testimonial obligations; or (ii)
right to take legal or factual positions in litigation or other legal proceedings in which the
Commission is not a party.
12. Defendant hereby waives any rights under the Equal Access to Justice Act, the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, or any other provision of law to
seek from the United States, or any agency, or any official of the United States acting in his or her
official capacity, directly or indirectly, reimbursement of attorney's fees or other fees, expenses,
4
or costs expended by Defendant to defend against this action. For these purposes, Defendant
agrees that Defendant is not the prevailing party in this action since the parties have reached a
good faith settlement.
13. Defendant agrees that the Commission may present the Final Judgment to the Court
for signature and entry without further notice.
14. Defendant agrees that this Court shall retain jurisdiction over this matter for the
purpose of enforcing the terms of the Final Judgment.
Dated: 8/26/2024
PRAG~~IS CPAs LLP
By:~ cA. dxJ_
Lori I\.. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
On August 26, 2024, Lori A. Roth, a person known to me, personally appeared
before me, and acknowledged executing the foregoing Consent with full authority to do so
on behalf of Prager Melis CPAs LLP as it~~~
otary Public
Commission expires:
5
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No. 01PE5053131
Qualified in Kings County b( 6
Commission Expires February 18, 20_
Stephen L. Cohen
Paul J. Bello
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K St. NW Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 736-8000
Fax: (202) 736-8711
[email protected]
[email protected]
Lara Shalov Mehraban
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 839-5300
Fax: (212) 839-5599
[email protected]
Attorneys for Defendant
6
PRAGER METIS CP AS LLP
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
The undersigned, Lori A. Roth, in her capacity as Global Managing Partner of Prager
Metis CPAs LLP ("Prager Metis LLP"), a Limited Liability Partnership, acting pursuant to her
authority thereunder, does hereby certify:
1. That, Lori A. Roth, an Officer of Prager Metis LLP, is at the date hereof authorized to act
on behalf of Prager Metis LLP, and in her sole discretion, to negotiate, approve, and make the
offer of settlement of Prager Metis LLP, attached hereto, to the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission" or "SEC") in connection with the pending action SEC v.
Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, et al., Case No. 23-cv-23723-RNS (S.D. Fla.); and the aforementioned
Officer be and hereby is authorized to undertake such actions as she may deem necessary and
advisable, including the execution of such documentation as may be required by the
Commission, in order to carry out the foregoing. I further certify that the aforesaid delegation has
not been amended or revoked in any respect and remains in full force and effect.
2. That pursuant to Prager Metis LLP's governing documents and a meeting of Prager Metis
LLP' s Executive Committee on August 8, 2024, the undersigned has the power and authority to
execute this Delegation on behalf of Prager Metis LLP, and that the undersigned has so executed
this Delegation this 26th day of August, 2024.
e!is cp As ~9P ,
By: t.A-, ~
Lor· A. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
STATE OF [INSERT] tJ(,vJ Yor"'K}
COUNTY OF [INSERT]~t.1.,vX,,~
SS:
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this 26th day of August, 2024, by
i A. Roth, who _is personally known to me or~ who has produced a [ST A TE] driver's
·c nse as identifi~ ho did take an oath.
Notary Public
State of [INSERT]
Commission Number:
Commission Expiration:
FLORAL. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No. 01PE5053131
Qualified in Kings County &t:,
Commission Expires February 18, 20_
EXHIBIT 3
1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
____________________________________________/
FINAL JUDGMENT AS TO DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC
The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC” or “Commission”) having filed a
Complaint, and Defendant Prager Metis CPAs, LLC (“Defendant” or “Prager Metis LLC”) having
entered a general appearance; consented to the Court’s jurisdiction over Defendant and the subject
matter of this action; consented to entry of this Final Judgment without admitting or denying the
allegations of the Complaint (except as to jurisdiction); waived findings of fact and conclusions of
law; and waived any right to appeal from this Final Judgment:
I.
PERMANENT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
A.
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)]
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is
permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Rule 2-02(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and violating the accountant’s reports
provisions of Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by misstating as to audits
included in accountant’s reports (which certify financial statements and which Defendant provides
to issuer clients who then make filings with the Commission that include or incorporate by
reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits the Defendant conducts on behalf of those
issuer clients are conducted by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance
with the applicable professional standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
B.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(“Exchange Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1, 13-a-11, and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. §§
240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, and 240.13a-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1, 13a-11, and 13a-13 [17
C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, and 240.13a-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in
accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or
recklessly providing substantial assistance to an issuer with securities registered under Section 12
of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78l] that fails to file:
i. accurate and complete annual reports with the Commission on Forms 10-K or 20-
F that include financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
3
accountant, in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)]
and Rule 13a-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-1] thereunder;
ii. accurate and complete current reports with the Commission on Forms 8-K
(including if such forms include financial statements audited and certified by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-11 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-11] thereunder; and
iii. accurate and complete quarterly reports with the Commission on Forms 10-Q that
include interim financial statements reviewed by an independent public accountant
(which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.10-01(d)] also requires
the interim financial statements included in a Form 10-Q to be reviewed by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
C.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
4
2- 01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer reporting under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] either voluntarily or due to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933 (“Securities Act”) t hat fails to file:
i. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including annual
reports on Forms 10-K or 20-F that include financial statements audited and
certified by an independent public accountant, in violation of Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.15d-1]
thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including quarterly
reports on Forms 10-Q that include interim financial statements reviewed by an
independent public accountant (which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R.
§ 210.10-01(d)] also requires the interim financial statements included in a Form
10-Q to be reviewed by an independent public accountant), in violation of Section
15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §
240.15d-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
5
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
D.
Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(i) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)]
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Exchange
Act Rule 17a-5(i) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(f)(1) [17 C.F.R.
§ 240.17a-5(f)(1)] requires an independent public accountant to “be qualified and independent in
accordance with” Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01]) and violating the
accountant’s reports provisions of Exchange Act Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5], by
misstating as to audits included in accountant’s reports (which certify the financial statements and
which Defendant provides to registered broker-dealer clients who then make filings with the
Commission that include or incorporate by reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits
the Defendant conducts on behalf of those registered broker-dealer clients are conducted by an
independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with the applicable professional
standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
6
E.
Aiding and Abetting Violations of Section 17(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)]
and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 17(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)] and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5]
thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17
C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(f)(1) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(f)(1)] requires
an independent public accountant to “be qualified and independent in accordance with” Rule 2-01
of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01]) and by knowingly or recklessly providing substantial
assistance to a registered broker-dealer that fails to file accurate and complete annual reports with
the Commission containing financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
accountant in accordance with applicable professional standards, in violation of Section 17(a) of
the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)] and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
F.
Aiding and Abetting Violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
(“Advisers Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Rule 206(4)-2
[17 C.F.R. § 275.206(4)-2] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
7
Section 206(4) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R. §
275.206(4)-2] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2(d)(3) [17 C.F.R. §
275.206(4)-2(d)(3)] defines an independent public accountant as “a public accountant that meets
the standards of independence described in rule 2-01(b) and (c) of Regulation S-X” [17 C.F.R. §
210.2-01(b) and (c)]) and by knowingly or recklessly providing substantial assistance to a
registered investment adviser that fails to file accurate and complete Forms ADV-E with the
Commission attaching surprise examination reports for examinations of client assets in the custody
of an investment adviser, in violation of Section 206(4) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)]
and Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R. § 275.206(4)-2] thereunder, which require, among other things, that
(i) client funds and securities be maintained with a qualified custodian, and (ii) those client funds
and securities over which the investment adviser has custody be verified through an annual surprise
examination by an independent public accountant.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
II.
DISGORGEMENT, PREJUDGMENT INTEREST, AND CIVIL PENALTY
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is liable
for disgorgement of $172,728.19, representing net profits gained as a result of the conduct alleged
in the Complaint, together with prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $27,486.64. The
8
Court finds that sending the disgorged funds to the United States Treasury, as ordered below, is
consistent with equitable principles. The Court further imposes a civil penalty in the amount of
$980,000, pursuant to Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)] and Section
209(e) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-9(e)]. Defendant shall satisfy these obligations by
paying $1,180,214.83 to the Securities and Exchange Commission within 30 days after entry of
this Final Judgment.
Defendant may transmit payment electronically to the Commission, which will provide
detailed ACH transfer/Fedwire instructions upon request. Payment may also be made directly
from a bank account via Pay.gov through the SEC website at
http://www.sec.gov/about/
offices/ofm.htm. Defendant may also pay by certified check, bank cashier’s check, or United
States postal money order payable to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which shall be
delivered or mailed to:
Enterprise Services Center
Accounts Receivable Branch
6500 South MacArthur Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
and shall be accompanied by a letter identifying the case title, civil action number, and name of
this Court; Prager Metis CPAs, LLC as a defendant in this action; and specifying that payment is
made pursuant to this Final Judgment.
Defendant shall simultaneously transmit photocopies of evidence of payment and case
identifying information to the Commission’s counsel in this action. By making this payment,
Defendant relinquishes all legal and equitable right, title, and interest in such funds and no part of
the funds shall be returned to Defendant. The Commission shall send the funds paid pursuant to
this Final Judgment to the United States Treasury.
9
The Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for disgorgement and prejudgment
interest by using all collection procedures authorized by law, including, but not limited to, moving
for civil contempt at any time after 30 days following entry of this Final Judgment. The
Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for penalties by the use of all collection procedures
authorized by law, including the Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act, 28 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.,
and moving for civil contempt for the violation of any Court orders issued in this action.
Defendant shall pay post judgment interest on any amounts due after 30 days of the entry
of this Final Judgment pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1961.
III.
INCORPORATION OF CONSENT
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the Consent is
incorporated herein with the same force and effect as if fully set forth herein, and that Defendant
shall comply with all of the undertakings and agreements set forth therein.
IV.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that this Court shall
retain jurisdiction of this matter for the purposes of enforcing the terms of this Final Judgment.
DONE AND ORDERED, in Miami, Florida, on ______________, 2024.
________________________________
UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
Copies to:
Counsel of record
EXHIBIT 4
1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
____________________________________________/
FINAL JUDGMENT AS TO DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP
The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC” or “Commission”) having filed a
Complaint, and Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLP (“Defendant” or “Prager Metis LLP”) having
entered a general appearance; consented to the Court’s jurisdiction over Defendant and the subject
matter of this action; consented to entry of this Final Judgment without admitting or denying the
allegations of the Complaint (except as to jurisdiction); waived findings of fact and conclusions of
law; and waived any right to appeal from this Final Judgment:
I.
PERMANENT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
A.
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)]
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is
permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Rule 2-02(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and violating the accountant’s reports
provisions of Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by misstating as to audits
included in accountant’s reports (which certify financial statements and which Defendant provides
to issuer clients who then make filings with the Commission that include or incorporate by
reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits the Defendant conducts on behalf of those
issuer clients are conducted by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance
with the applicable professional standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
B.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(“Exchange Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1 and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1
and 240.13a-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1 and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.13a-1 and 240.13a-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-
01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer with securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78l] that fails to file:
i. accurate and complete annual reports with the Commission on Forms 10-K or 20-
F that include financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
3
accountant, in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)]
and Rule 13a-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-1] thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete quarterly reports with the Commission on Forms 10-Q that
include interim financial statements reviewed by an independent public accountant
(which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.10-01(d)] also requires
the interim financial statements included in a Form 10-Q to be reviewed by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
C.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer reporting under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] either voluntarily or due to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933 (“Securities Act”) that fails to file:
4
i. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including annual
reports on Forms 10-K or 20-F that include financial statements audited and
certified by an independent public accountant, in violation of Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.15d-1]
thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including quarterly
reports on Forms 10-Q that include interim financial statements reviewed by an
independent public accountant (which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R.
§ 210.10-01(d)] also requires the interim financial statements included in a Form
10-Q to be reviewed by an independent public accountant), in violation of Section
15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §
240.15d-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
5
II.
DISGORGEMENT, PREJUDGMENT INTEREST, AND CIVIL PENALTY
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is liable
for disgorgement of $3,868.90, representing net profits gained as a result of the conduct alleged in
the Complaint, together with prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $916.27. The Court
finds that sending the disgorged funds to the United States Treasury, as ordered below, is consistent
with equitable principles. The Court further imposes a civil penalty in the amount of $20,000,
pursuant to Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)]. Defendant shall satisfy
these obligations by paying $24,785.17 to the Securities and Exchange Commission within 30
days after entry of this Final Judgment.
Defendant may transmit payment electronically to the Commission, which will provide
detailed ACH transfer/Fedwire instructions upon request. Payment may also be made directly
from a bank account via Pay.gov through the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov/about/
offices/ofm.htm. Defendant may also pay by certified check, bank cashier’s check, or United
States postal money order payable to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which shall be
delivered or mailed to:
Enterprise Services Center
Accounts Receivable Branch
6500 South MacArthur Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
and shall be accompanied by a letter identifying the case title, civil action number, and name of
this Court; Prager Metis CPAs LLP as a defendant in this action; and specifying that payment is
made pursuant to this Final Judgment.
Defendant shall simultaneously transmit photocopies of evidence of payment and case
identifying information to the Commission’s counsel in this action. By making this payment,
6
Defendant relinquishes all legal and equitable right, title, and interest in such funds and no part of
the funds shall be returned to Defendant. The Commission shall send the funds paid pursuant to
this Final Judgment to the United States Treasury.
The Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for disgorgement and prejudgment
interest by using all collection procedures authorized by law, including, but not limited to, moving
for civil contempt at any time after 30 days following entry of this Final Judgment. The
Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for penalties by the use of all collection procedures
authorized by law, including the Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act, 28 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.,
and moving for civil contempt for the violation of any Court orders issued in this action.
Defendant shall pay post judgment interest on any amounts due after 30 days of the entry
of this Final Judgment pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1961.
III.
INCORPORATION OF CONSENT
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the Consent is
incorporated herein with the same force and effect as if fully set forth herein, and that Defendant
shall comply with all of the undertakings and agreements set forth therein.
IV.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that this Court shall
retain jurisdiction of this matter for the purposes of enforcing the terms of this Final Judgment.
DONE AND ORDERED, in Miami, Florida, on ______________, 2024.
________________________________
UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
Copies to:
Counsel of recordUNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
_______________________________________________/
PLAINTIFF’S UNOPPOSED MOTION FOR ENTRY OF FINAL JUDGMENTS
AGAINST DEFENDANTS PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
AND PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP
Plaintiff Securities and Exchange Commission (“Commission”) moves for entry of final
judgments against Defendants Prager Metis CPAs, LLC (“Prager Metis LLC”) and Prager Metis
CPAs LLP (“Prager Metis LLP”) (collectively, “Defendants”). The Defendants have consented
to the entry of the proposed Final Judgments which include permanent injunctive relief and
monetary remedies collectively totaling $1,205,000. See Consents attached as Exhibits 1 and 2
and proposed Final Judgments attached as Exhibits 3 and 4. The Court’s entry of the proposed
Final Judgments will conclude the Commission’s litigation of this case against the Defendants.
I. Relevant Procedural History
On September 29, 2023, the Commission filed its Complaint against Prager Metis LLC and
Prager Metis LLP, alleging, among other things, the affiliated accounting and auditing firms
violated the Commission’s auditor independence rules. See Complaint, DE 1. On May 29, 2024,
the Court denied Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss. See Order, DE 32. On August 1, 2024 and
September 3, 2024, the parties informed the Court that they were communicating regarding
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 1 of 5
2
potential settlement of this matter and that the Commission’s staff was seeking settlement
authorization from the five-member Commission. See Motions, DE 36 and DE 39.
II. Injunctive Relief
The proposed Final Judgments provide for the entry of injunctive relief and monetary
relief, among other things. Regarding injunctive relief, the proposed Final Judgments comply with
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d), which provides that “[e]very order granting an injunction
. . . must: (A) state the reasons why it issued; (B) state its terms specifically; and (C) describe in
reasonable detail—and not by referring to the complaint or other document—the act or acts sought
to be restrained or required.” See Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(d). Eleventh Circuit law likewise requires that
judgments for injunctive relief describe in reasonable detail the acts or conduct sought to be
restrained. SEC v. Goble, 682 F.3d 934, 951-52 (11th Cir. 2012). The Goble court, while
questioning whether merely reciting the language of a statute in an injunction adequately informs
a defendant of the prohibited conduct, also explained that “a broad, but properly drafted injunction,
which largely uses the statutory or regulatory language may satisfy the specificity requirement of
Rule 65(d) so long as it clearly lets the defendant know what he is ordered to do or not do.” Id. at
952.
As to Prager Metis LLC, the proposed Final Judgment permanently restrains and enjoins
Prager Metis LLC from violating Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)] and
Rule 17a-5(i) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-
5(i)]; from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a), 15(d), and 17(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a), 78o(d), and 78q(a)] and Exchange Act Rules 13a-1, 13a-11, 13a-13, 15d-1,
15d-13, and 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-1, 240.15d-13, and
240.17a-5]; and from aiding and abetting violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 2 of 5
3
Act of 1940 (“Advisers Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R.
§ 275.206(4)-2]. See Ex. 3.
As to Prager Metis LLP, the proposed Final Judgment permanently restrains and enjoins
Prager Metis LLP from violating Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], and
from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a) and 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C.
§§ 78m(a) and 78o(d)] and Exchange Act Rules 13a-1, 13a-13, 15d-1, and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§
240.13a-1, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-1, and 240.15d-13]. See Ex. 4.
Both proposed Final Judgments (Exhibits 3 and 4) conform with Goble because the
statutory language “clearly lets the defendant[s] know what [they are] ordered to do or not.” See
id. Furthermore, the proposed Final Judgments include injunctive language that prohibits conduct
directly tied to the allegations in the Complaint, and sufficiently notifies Defendant of the
prohibited conduct. Additionally, the Defendants have consented to the injunctive language
contained in the proposed Final Judgments. See Ex. 1-2.
III. Additional Relief
As additional relief, Prager Metis LLC has consented to the proposed Final Judgment
awarding the Commission disgorgement of $172,728.19, plus prejudgment interest thereon in the
amount of $27,486.64, and a civil penalty of $980,000. See Ex. 1 and 3. As to Prager Metis LLP,
it has consented to the proposed Final Judgment awarding the Commission disgorgement of
$3,868.90, plus prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $916.27, and a $20,000 civil penalty.
See Ex. 2 and 4.
IV. Conclusion
The Commission respectfully requests that the Court enter the proposed Final Judgments,
which the Defendants have consented to, and which will fully resolve this pending matter.
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 3 of 5
4
RULE 7.1.A.3 CERTIFICATE OF CONFERRAL
Pursuant to Southern District of Florida Local Rule 7.1.A.3, undersigned counsel has
conferred with counsel for Defendants Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, and Prager Metis CPAs LLP,
who does not oppose this motion.
Dated: September 17, 2024
Respectfully submitted,
By: s/ Christine Nestor
Christine Nestor, Esq.
Senior Trial Counsel
Florida Bar No. 597211
Direct Dial: (305) 982-6367
Email: [email protected]
Brian Lechich, Esq.
Trial Counsel
Florida Bar No. 84419
Direct Dial: (305) 510-9133
Email: [email protected]
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
801 Brickell Avenue, Suite 1950
Miami, Florida 33131
Telephone: (305) 982-6300
Facsimile: (305) 536-4154
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 4 of 5
5
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that on September 17, 2024, I electronically filed the foregoing
with the Clerk of Court by using the CM/ECF system, which will send a notice of electronic filing
to counsel of record, or service will be by means denoted below, upon the below list of counsel.
By: s/ Christine Nestor
Christine Nestor
SERVICE LIST
Stephen L. Cohen, Esq.
Paul J. Bello, Esq.
Jeremy Rozansky, Esq.
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K. Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
(202) 736-8000
Lara Shalov Mehraban, Esq.
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
[email protected]
(212) 839-5300
Via CM/ECF
Counsel for Defendants
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 5 of 5
EXHIBIT 1
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 1 of 8
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO.1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CP As, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CP As LLP,
Defendants.
I ---------------------'
CONSENT OF DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC TO FINAL JUDGMENT
1. Defendant Prager Metis CP As, LLC ("Defendant") acknowledges having been
served with the complaint in this action, enters a general appearance, and admits the Court's
jurisdiction over Defendant and over the subject matter of this action.
2. Without admitting or denying the allegations of the complaint ( except as to personal
and subject matter jurisdiction, which Defendant admits), Defendant hereby consents to the entry
of the final Judgment in the form attached hereto (the "Final Judgment") and incorporated by
reference herein, which, among other things:
(a) permanently restrains and enjoins Defendant from violating, directly or indirectly,
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)] and Rule 17a-5(i) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act") [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)];
from aiding and abetting violations of Sections 13(a), 15(d), and 17(a) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a), 78o(d), and 78q(a)] and Exchange Act Rules
13a-1, 13a-11, 13a-13, 15d-l, 15d-13, and 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-l, 240.13a-
1
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 2 of 8
11, 240.13a-13, 240.15d-l, 240.15d-13, and 240.l 7a-5]; and from aiding and
abetting violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
("Advisers Act") [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R.
§ 275.206(4)-2];
(b) orders Defendant to pay disgorgement in the amount of $172,728.19, plus
prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $27,486.64, for a total of
$200,214.83; and
( c) orders Defendant to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $980,000, pursuant to
Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)] and Section 209(e)
of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-9(e)].
3. Defendant agrees that it shall not seek or accept, directly or indirectly,
reimbursement or indemnification from any source, including, but not limited to, payment made
pursuant to any insurance policy, with regard to any civil penalty amounts that Defendant pays
pursuant to the Final Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof
are added to a distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors. Defendant further
agrees that it shall not claim, assert, or apply for a tax deduction or tax credit with regard to any
federal, state, or local tax for any penalty amounts that Defendant pays pursuant to the Final
Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof are added to a
distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors.
4. Defendant waives the entry of findings of fact and conclusions of law pursuant to
Rule 52 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
5. Defendant waives the right, if any, to a jury trial and to appeal from the entry of the
Final Judgment.
2
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 3 of 8
6. Defendant enters into this Consent voluntarily and represents that no threats, offers,
promises, or inducements of any kind have been made by the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission") or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission to induce Defendant to enter into this Consent.
7. Defendant agrees that this Consent shall be incorporated into the Final Judgment
with the same force and effect as if fully set forth therein.
8. Defendant will not oppose the enforcement of the Final Judgment on the ground, if
any exists, that it fails to comply with Rule 65(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and
hereby waives any objection based thereon.
9. Defendant waives service of the Final Judgment and agrees that entry of the Final
Judgment by the Court and filing with the Clerk of the Court will constitute notice to Defendant
of its terms and conditions. Defendant further agrees to provide counsel for the Commission,
within thirty days after the Final Judgment is filed with the Clerk of the Court, with an affidavit or
declaration stating that Defendant has received and read a copy of the Final Judgment.
10. Consistent with 17 C.F.R. § 202.5(f), this Consent resolves only the claims asserted
against Defendant in this civil proceeding. Defendant acknowledges that no promise or
representation has been made by the Commission or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission with regard to any criminal liability that may have arisen or may
arise from the facts underlying this action or immunity from any such criminal liability. Defendant
waives any claim of Double Jeopardy based upon the settlement of this proceeding, including the
imposition of any remedy or civil penalty herein. Defendant further acknowledges that the Court's
entry of a permanent injunction may have collateral consequences under federal or state law and
the rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations, licensing boards, and other regulatory
3
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 4 of 8
organizations. Such collateral consequences include, but are not limited to, a statutory
disqualification with respect to membership or participation in, or association with a member of,
a self-regulatory organization. This statutory disqualification has consequences that are separate
from any sanction imposed in an administrative proceeding. In addition, in any disciplinary
proceeding before the Commission based on the entry of the injunction in this action, Defendant
understands that it shall not be permitted to contest the factual allegations of the complaint in this
action.
11. Defendant understands and agrees to comply with the terms of 17 C.F .R.
§ 202.S(e), which provides in part that it is the Commission's policy "not to permit a defendant or
respondent to consent to a judgment or order that imposes a sanction while denying the allegations
in the complaint or order for proceedings," and "a refusal to admit the allegations is equivalent to
a denial, unless the defendant or respondent states that he neither admits nor denies the
allegations." As part of Defendant's agreement to comply with the terms of Section 202.S(e),
Defendant: (i) will not take any action or make or permit to be made any public statement denying,
directly or indirectly, any allegation in the complaint or creating the impression that the complaint
is without factual basis; (ii) will not make or permit to be made any public statement to the effect
that Defendant does not admit the allegations of the complaint, or that this Consent contains no
admission of the allegations, without also stating that Defendant does not deny the allegations; and
(iii) upon the filing of this Consent, Defendant hereby withdraws any papers filed in this action to
the extent that they deny any allegation in the complaint. If Defendant breaches this agreement,
the Commission may petition the Court to vacate the Final Judgment and restore this action to its
active docket. Nothing in this paragraph affects Defendant's: (i) testimonial obligations; or (ii)
4
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 5 of 8
right to take legal or factual positions m litigation or other legal proceedings m which the
Commission is not a party.
12. Defendant hereby waives any rights under the Equal Access to Justice Act, the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, or any other provision of law to
seek from the United States, or any agency, or any official of the United States acting in his or her
official capacity, directly or indirectly, reimbursement of attorney's fees or other fees , expenses,
or costs expended by Defendant to defend against this action. For these purposes, Defendant
agrees that Defendant is not the prevailing party in this action since the parties have reached a
good faith settlement.
13. Defendant agrees that the Commission may present the Final Judgment to the Court
for signature and entry without further notice.
14. Defendant agrees that this Court shall retain jurisdiction over this matter for the
purpose of enforcing the terms of the Final Judgment.
Dated: 8/26/2024
PRAG~ R METIS CPAs, L~C
By: ~ · u{. dzu._
Lori . Roth
Global Managing Partner
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
On August 26, 2024, Lori A. Roth, a person known to me, personally appeared
before me, and acknowledged executing the foregoing Consent with full authority to do so
on behalfof Prager Melis CPAs, LLC as its~ ing 2 '· ~,ft;__,
Notary Public
Commission expires:
5
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No.01PE5053131 ~
Qualified !n Kings County 20(?{.{,
Commission Expires February 18, -
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 6 of 8
Stephen L. Cohen
Paul J. Bello
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K St. NW Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 736-8000
Fax: (202) 736-8711
[email protected]
[email protected]
Lara Shalov Mehraban
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 839-5300
Fax: (212) 839-5599
[email protected]
Attorneys for Defendant
6
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 7 of 8
PRAGER METIS CP AS, LLC
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
The undersigned, Lori A. Roth, in her capacity as Global Managing Partner of Prager
Metis CPAs, LLC ("Prager Metis LLC"), a Limited Liability Company, acting pursuant to her
authority thereunder, does hereby certify:
I . That, Lori A. Roth, an Officer of Prager Metis LLC, is at the date hereof authorized to act
on behalf of Prager Metis LLC, and in her sole discretion, to negotiate, approve, and make the
offer of settlement of Prager Metis LLC, attached hereto, to the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission" or "SEC") in connection with the pending action SEC v.
Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, et al. , Case No. 23-cv-23723-RNS (S.D. Fla.); and the aforementioned
Officer be and hereby is authorized to undertake such actions as she may deem necessary and
advisable, including the execution of such documentation as may be required by the
Commission, in order to carry out the foregoing. I further certify that the aforesaid delegation has
not been amended or revoked in any respect and remains in full force and effect.
2. That pursuant to Prager Metis LLC ' s governing documents and a meeting of Prager
Metis LLC' s Executive Committee on August 8, 2024, the undersigned has the power and
authority to execute this Delegation on behalf of Prager Metis LLC, and that the undersigned has
so executed this Delegation this 26th day of August, 2024.
STATE OF [INSERT] )J~ Yo<'k. }
~;:g~ , ~ ~s~
Lori '.A.. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
} SS:
COUNTY OF [INSERT]~ '/orf._ }
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this 26th day of August, 2024, by
Lori A. Roth, who _is personally known to me or~ -who has produced a [STATE] driver's
dLntif✓- an~noath.
Notary Public
State of[INSERT]
Commission Number:
Commission Expiration:
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No.01PE5053131 gt
Qualified in Kings County
Commission Expires February 18, 20
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-1 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 8 of 8
EXHIBIT 2
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 1 of 8
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
I ------------------
CONSENT OF DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP TO FINAL JUDGMENT
1. Defendant Prager Metis CP As LLP ("Defendant") acknowledges having been
served with the complaint in this action, enters a general appearance, and admits the Court's
jurisdiction over Defendant and over the subject matter of this action.
2. Without admitting or denying the allegations of the complaint ( except as to personal
and subject matter jurisdiction, which Defendant admits), Defendant hereby consents to the entry
of the final Judgment in the form attached hereto (the "Final Judgment") and incorporated by
reference herein, which, among other things:
(a) permanently restrains and enjoins Defendant from violating, directly or indirectly,
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], and from aiding and
abetting violations of Sections 13(a) and 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 ("Exchange Act") [15 U.S.C. §§ 78m(a) and 78o(d)] and Exchange Act Rules
13a-1, 13a-13, 15d-1, and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-l, 240.13a-13, 240.15d
l, and 240.15d-13];
1
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 2 of 8
(b) orders Defendant to pay disgorgement in the amount of $3,868.90, plus
prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of$916.27, for a total of$4,785.l 7; and
( c) orders Defendant to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $20,000, pursuant to
Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)].
3. Defendant agrees that it shall not seek or accept, directly or indirectly,
reimbursement or indemnification from any source, including, but not limited to, payment made
pursuant to any insurance policy, with regard to any civil penalty amounts that Defendant pays
pursuant to the Final Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof
are added to a distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors. Defendant further
agrees that it shall not claim, assert, or apply for a tax deduction or tax credit with regard to any
federal, state, or local tax for any penalty amounts that Defendant pays pursuant to the Final
Judgment, regardless of whether such penalty amounts or any part thereof are added to a
distribution fund or otherwise used for the benefit of investors.
4. Defendant waives the entry of findings of fact and conclusions of law pursuant to
Rule 52 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
5. Defendant waives the right, if any, to a jury trial and to appeal from the entry of the
Final Judgment.
6. Defendant enters into this Consent voluntarily and represents that no threats, offers,
promises, or inducements of any kind have been made by the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission") or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission to induce Defendant to enter into this Consent.
7. Defendant agrees that this Consent shall be incorporated into the Final Judgment
with the same force and effect as if fully set forth therein.
2
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 3 of 8
8. Defendant will not oppose the enforcement of the Final Judgment on the ground, if
any exists, that it fails to comply with Rule 65(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and
hereby waives any objection based thereon.
9. Defendant waives service of the Final Judgment and agrees that entry of the Final
Judgment by the Court and filing with the Clerk of the Court will constitute notice to Defendant
of its terms and conditions. Defendant further agrees to provide counsel for the Commission,
within thirty days after the Final Judgment is filed with the Clerk of the Court, with an affidavit or
declaration stating that Defendant has received and read a copy of the Final Judgment.
10. Consistent with 17 C.F .R. § 202.5(:t), this Consent resolves only the claims asserted
against Defendant in this civil proceeding. Defendant acknowledges that no promise or
representation has been made by the Commission or any member, officer, employee, agent, or
representative of the Commission with regard to any criminal liability that may have arisen or may
arise from the facts underlying this action or immunity from any such criminal liability. Defendant
waives any claim of Double Jeopardy based upon the settlement of this proceeding, including the
imposition of any remedy or civil penalty herein. Defendant further acknowledges that the Court's
entry of a permanent injunction may have collateral consequences under federal or state law and
the rules and regulations of self-regulatory organizations, licensing boards, and other regulatory
organizations. Such collateral consequences include, but are not limited to, a statutory
disqualification with respect to membership or participation in, or association with a member of,
a self-regulatory organization. This statutory disqualification has consequences that are separate
from any sanction imposed in an administrative proceeding. In addition, in any disciplinary
proceeding before the Commission based on the entry of the injunction in this action, Defendant
3
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 4 of 8
understands that it shall not be permitted to contest the factual allegations of the complaint in this
action.
1 1. Defendant understands and agrees to comply with the terms of 17 C.F .R.
§ 202.S(e), which provides in part that it is the Commission's policy "not to permit a defendant or
respondent to consent to a judgment or order that imposes a sanction while denying the allegations
in the complaint or order for proceedings," and "a refusal to admit the allegations is equivalent to
a denial. unless the defendant or respondent states that he neither admits nor denies the
allegations." As part of Defendant's agreement to comply with the terms of Section 202.S(e),
Defendant: (i) will not take any action or make or permit to be made any public statement denying,
directly or indirectly, any allegation in the complaint or creating the impression that the complaint
is without factual basis; (ii) will not make or permit to be made any public statement to the effect
that Defendant does not admit the allegations of the complaint, or that this Consent contains no
admission of the allegations, without also stating that Defendant does not deny the allegations; and
(iii) upon the filing of this Consent, Defendant hereby withdraws any papers filed in this action to
the extent that they deny any allegation in the complaint. If Defendant breaches this agreement,
the Commission may petition the Court to vacate the Final Judgment and restore this action to its
active docket. Nothing in this paragraph affects Defendant's: (i) testimonial obligations; or (ii)
right to take legal or factual positions in litigation or other legal proceedings in which the
Commission is not a party.
12. Defendant hereby waives any rights under the Equal Access to Justice Act, the
Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, or any other provision of law to
seek from the United States, or any agency, or any official of the United States acting in his or her
official capacity, directly or indirectly, reimbursement of attorney's fees or other fees, expenses,
4
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 5 of 8
or costs expended by Defendant to defend against this action. For these purposes, Defendant
agrees that Defendant is not the prevailing party in this action since the parties have reached a
good faith settlement.
13. Defendant agrees that the Commission may present the Final Judgment to the Court
for signature and entry without further notice.
14. Defendant agrees that this Court shall retain jurisdiction over this matter for the
purpose of enforcing the terms of the Final Judgment.
Dated: 8/26/2024
PRAG~ ~ IS CPAs LLP
By: ~ cA . dxJ_
Lori I\.. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
On August 26, 2024, Lori A. Roth, a person known to me, personally appeared
before me, and acknowledged executing the foregoing Consent with full authority to do so
on behalf of Prager Melis CPAs LLP as it~~~
otary Public
Commission expires:
5
FLORA L. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No. 01PE5053131
Qualified in Kings County b( 6
Commission Expires February 18, 20_
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 6 of 8
Stephen L. Cohen
Paul J. Bello
Sidley Austin LLP
1501 K St. NW Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 736-8000
Fax: (202) 736-8711
[email protected]
[email protected]
Lara Shalov Mehraban
Sidley Austin LLP
787 Seventh Ave.
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 839-5300
Fax: (212) 839-5599
[email protected]
Attorneys for Defendant
6
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 7 of 8
PRAGER METIS CP AS LLP
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
The undersigned, Lori A. Roth, in her capacity as Global Managing Partner of Prager
Metis CPAs LLP ("Prager Metis LLP"), a Limited Liability Partnership, acting pursuant to her
authority thereunder, does hereby certify:
1. That, Lori A. Roth, an Officer of Prager Metis LLP, is at the date hereof authorized to act
on behalf of Prager Metis LLP, and in her sole discretion, to negotiate, approve, and make the
offer of settlement of Prager Metis LLP, attached hereto, to the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission" or "SEC") in connection with the pending action SEC v.
Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, et al. , Case No. 23-cv-23723-RNS (S.D. Fla.); and the aforementioned
Officer be and hereby is authorized to undertake such actions as she may deem necessary and
advisable, including the execution of such documentation as may be required by the
Commission, in order to carry out the foregoing. I further certify that the aforesaid delegation has
not been amended or revoked in any respect and remains in full force and effect.
2. That pursuant to Prager Metis LLP's governing documents and a meeting of Prager Metis
LLP' s Executive Committee on August 8, 2024, the undersigned has the power and authority to
execute this Delegation on behalf of Prager Metis LLP, and that the undersigned has so executed
this Delegation this 26th day of August, 2024.
e!is cp As ~9P ,
By: t.A-, ~
Lor· A. Roth
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 1800
New York, NY 10122
STATE OF [INSERT] tJ(,vJ Yor"'K }
COUNTY OF [INSERT] ~t.1.,vX,,~
SS:
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this 26th day of August, 2024, by
i A. Roth, who _is personally known to me or~ who has produced a [ST A TE] driver's
·c nse as identifi~ ho did take an oath.
Notary Public
State of [INSERT]
Commission Number:
Commission Expiration:
FLORAL. PERALTA
Notary Public, State of New York
No. 01PE5053131
Qualified in Kings County &t:,
Commission Expires February 18, 20_
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-2 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 8 of 8
EXHIBIT 3
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1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
____________________________________________/
FINAL JUDGMENT AS TO DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC
The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC” or “Commission”) having filed a
Complaint, and Defendant Prager Metis CPAs, LLC (“Defendant” or “Prager Metis LLC”) having
entered a general appearance; consented to the Court’s jurisdiction over Defendant and the subject
matter of this action; consented to entry of this Final Judgment without admitting or denying the
allegations of the Complaint (except as to jurisdiction); waived findings of fact and conclusions of
law; and waived any right to appeal from this Final Judgment:
I.
PERMANENT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
A.
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)]
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is
permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Rule 2-02(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-3 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 2 of 10
2
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and violating the accountant’s reports
provisions of Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by misstating as to audits
included in accountant’s reports (which certify financial statements and which Defendant provides
to issuer clients who then make filings with the Commission that include or incorporate by
reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits the Defendant conducts on behalf of those
issuer clients are conducted by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance
with the applicable professional standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
B.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(“Exchange Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1, 13-a-11, and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. §§
240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, and 240.13a-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1, 13a-11, and 13a-13 [17
C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1, 240.13a-11, and 240.13a-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in
accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or
recklessly providing substantial assistance to an issuer with securities registered under Section 12
of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78l] that fails to file:
i. accurate and complete annual reports with the Commission on Forms 10-K or 20-
F that include financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-3 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 3 of 10
3
accountant, in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)]
and Rule 13a-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-1] thereunder;
ii. accurate and complete current reports with the Commission on Forms 8-K
(including if such forms include financial statements audited and certified by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-11 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-11] thereunder; and
iii. accurate and complete quarterly reports with the Commission on Forms 10-Q that
include interim financial statements reviewed by an independent public accountant
(which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.10-01(d)] also requires
the interim financial statements included in a Form 10-Q to be reviewed by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
C.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
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4
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer reporting under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] either voluntarily or due to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933 (“Securities Act”) that fails to file:
i. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including annual
reports on Forms 10-K or 20-F that include financial statements audited and
certified by an independent public accountant, in violation of Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.15d-1]
thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including quarterly
reports on Forms 10-Q that include interim financial statements reviewed by an
independent public accountant (which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R.
§ 210.10-01(d)] also requires the interim financial statements included in a Form
10-Q to be reviewed by an independent public accountant), in violation of Section
15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §
240.15d-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
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5
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
D.
Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(i) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)]
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Exchange
Act Rule 17a-5(i) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(i)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(f)(1) [17 C.F.R.
§ 240.17a-5(f)(1)] requires an independent public accountant to “be qualified and independent in
accordance with” Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01]) and violating the
accountant’s reports provisions of Exchange Act Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5], by
misstating as to audits included in accountant’s reports (which certify the financial statements and
which Defendant provides to registered broker-dealer clients who then make filings with the
Commission that include or incorporate by reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits
the Defendant conducts on behalf of those registered broker-dealer clients are conducted by an
independent registered public accounting firm in accordance with the applicable professional
standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-3 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 6 of 10
6
E.
Aiding and Abetting Violations of Section 17(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)]
and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 17(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)] and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5]
thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17
C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Exchange Act Rule 17a-5(f)(1) [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5(f)(1)] requires
an independent public accountant to “be qualified and independent in accordance with” Rule 2-01
of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01]) and by knowingly or recklessly providing substantial
assistance to a registered broker-dealer that fails to file accurate and complete annual reports with
the Commission containing financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
accountant in accordance with applicable professional standards, in violation of Section 17(a) of
the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78q(a)] and Rule 17a-5 [17 C.F.R. § 240.17a-5] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
F.
Aiding and Abetting Violations of Section 206(4) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940
(“Advisers Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Rule 206(4)-2
[17 C.F.R. § 275.206(4)-2] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
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Section 206(4) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)] and Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R. §
275.206(4)-2] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-01(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] (as Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-2(d)(3) [17 C.F.R. §
275.206(4)-2(d)(3)] defines an independent public accountant as “a public accountant that meets
the standards of independence described in rule 2-01(b) and (c) of Regulation S-X” [17 C.F.R. §
210.2-01(b) and (c)]) and by knowingly or recklessly providing substantial assistance to a
registered investment adviser that fails to file accurate and complete Forms ADV-E with the
Commission attaching surprise examination reports for examinations of client assets in the custody
of an investment adviser, in violation of Section 206(4) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-6(4)]
and Rule 206(4)-2 [17 C.F.R. § 275.206(4)-2] thereunder, which require, among other things, that
(i) client funds and securities be maintained with a qualified custodian, and (ii) those client funds
and securities over which the investment adviser has custody be verified through an annual surprise
examination by an independent public accountant.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
II.
DISGORGEMENT, PREJUDGMENT INTEREST, AND CIVIL PENALTY
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is liable
for disgorgement of $172,728.19, representing net profits gained as a result of the conduct alleged
in the Complaint, together with prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $27,486.64. The
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-3 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 8 of 10
8
Court finds that sending the disgorged funds to the United States Treasury, as ordered below, is
consistent with equitable principles. The Court further imposes a civil penalty in the amount of
$980,000, pursuant to Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)] and Section
209(e) of the Advisers Act [15 U.S.C. § 80b-9(e)]. Defendant shall satisfy these obligations by
paying $1,180,214.83 to the Securities and Exchange Commission within 30 days after entry of
this Final Judgment.
Defendant may transmit payment electronically to the Commission, which will provide
detailed ACH transfer/Fedwire instructions upon request. Payment may also be made directly
from a bank account via Pay.gov through the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov/about/
offices/ofm.htm. Defendant may also pay by certified check, bank cashier’s check, or United
States postal money order payable to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which shall be
delivered or mailed to:
Enterprise Services Center
Accounts Receivable Branch
6500 South MacArthur Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
and shall be accompanied by a letter identifying the case title, civil action number, and name of
this Court; Prager Metis CPAs, LLC as a defendant in this action; and specifying that payment is
made pursuant to this Final Judgment.
Defendant shall simultaneously transmit photocopies of evidence of payment and case
identifying information to the Commission’s counsel in this action. By making this payment,
Defendant relinquishes all legal and equitable right, title, and interest in such funds and no part of
the funds shall be returned to Defendant. The Commission shall send the funds paid pursuant to
this Final Judgment to the United States Treasury.
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-3 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 9 of 10
http://www.sec.gov/about/offices/ofm.htm
http://www.sec.gov/about/offices/ofm.htm
9
The Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for disgorgement and prejudgment
interest by using all collection procedures authorized by law, including, but not limited to, moving
for civil contempt at any time after 30 days following entry of this Final Judgment. The
Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for penalties by the use of all collection procedures
authorized by law, including the Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act, 28 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.,
and moving for civil contempt for the violation of any Court orders issued in this action.
Defendant shall pay post judgment interest on any amounts due after 30 days of the entry
of this Final Judgment pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1961.
III.
INCORPORATION OF CONSENT
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the Consent is
incorporated herein with the same force and effect as if fully set forth herein, and that Defendant
shall comply with all of the undertakings and agreements set forth therein.
IV.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that this Court shall
retain jurisdiction of this matter for the purposes of enforcing the terms of this Final Judgment.
DONE AND ORDERED, in Miami, Florida, on ______________, 2024.
________________________________
UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
Copies to:
Counsel of record
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EXHIBIT 4
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 1 of 7
1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
CASE NO. 1:23-cv-23723-RNS
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION,
Plaintiff,
v.
PRAGER METIS CPAs, LLC,
and PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP,
Defendants.
____________________________________________/
FINAL JUDGMENT AS TO DEFENDANT PRAGER METIS CPAs LLP
The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC” or “Commission”) having filed a
Complaint, and Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLP (“Defendant” or “Prager Metis LLP”) having
entered a general appearance; consented to the Court’s jurisdiction over Defendant and the subject
matter of this action; consented to entry of this Final Judgment without admitting or denying the
allegations of the Complaint (except as to jurisdiction); waived findings of fact and conclusions of
law; and waived any right to appeal from this Final Judgment:
I.
PERMANENT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
A.
Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)]
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is
permanently restrained and enjoined from violating, directly or indirectly, Rule 2-02(b) of
Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 2 of 7
2
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and violating the accountant’s reports
provisions of Rule 2-02(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-02(b)], by misstating as to audits
included in accountant’s reports (which certify financial statements and which Defendant provides
to issuer clients who then make filings with the Commission that include or incorporate by
reference those accountant’s reports) that those audits the Defendant conducts on behalf of those
issuer clients are conducted by an independent registered public accounting firm in accordance
with the applicable professional standards.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
B.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(“Exchange Act”) [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1 and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.13a-1
and 240.13a-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rules 13a-1 and 13a-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.13a-1 and 240.13a-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule 2-
01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer with securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78l] that fails to file:
i. accurate and complete annual reports with the Commission on Forms 10-K or 20-
F that include financial statements audited and certified by an independent public
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 3 of 7
3
accountant, in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)]
and Rule 13a-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-1] thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete quarterly reports with the Commission on Forms 10-Q that
include interim financial statements reviewed by an independent public accountant
(which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.10-01(d)] also requires
the interim financial statements included in a Form 10-Q to be reviewed by an
independent public accountant), in violation of Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act
[15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] and Rule 13a-13 [17 C.F.R. § 240.13a-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
C.
Aiding and Abetting Any Violation of Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder
IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that
Defendant is permanently restrained and enjoined from aiding and abetting any violation of
Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rules 15d-1 and 15d-13 [17 C.F.R.
§§ 240.15d-1 and 240.15d-13] thereunder, by failing to be independent in accordance with Rule
2-01(b) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R. § 210.2-01(b)] and by knowingly or recklessly providing
substantial assistance to an issuer reporting under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §
78o(d)] either voluntarily or due to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of
1933 (“Securities Act”) that fails to file:
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 4 of 7
4
i. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including annual
reports on Forms 10-K or 20-F that include financial statements audited and
certified by an independent public accountant, in violation of Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-1 [17 C.F.R. § 240.15d-1]
thereunder; and
ii. accurate and complete reports with the Commission, which are required by Section
13(a) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78m(a)] for each class of securities covered
by an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, including quarterly
reports on Forms 10-Q that include interim financial statements reviewed by an
independent public accountant (which Rule 10-01(d) of Regulation S-X [17 C.F.R.
§ 210.10-01(d)] also requires the interim financial statements included in a Form
10-Q to be reviewed by an independent public accountant), in violation of Section
15(d) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. §78o(d)] and Rule 15d-13 [17 C.F.R. §
240.15d-13] thereunder.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that, as provided in
Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(d)(2), the foregoing paragraph also binds the following who
receive actual notice of this Final Judgment by personal service or otherwise: (a) Defendant’s
officers, agents, servants, employees, and attorneys; and (b) other persons in active concert or
participation with Defendant or with anyone described in (a).
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 5 of 7
5
II.
DISGORGEMENT, PREJUDGMENT INTEREST, AND CIVIL PENALTY
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that Defendant is liable
for disgorgement of $3,868.90, representing net profits gained as a result of the conduct alleged in
the Complaint, together with prejudgment interest thereon in the amount of $916.27. The Court
finds that sending the disgorged funds to the United States Treasury, as ordered below, is consistent
with equitable principles. The Court further imposes a civil penalty in the amount of $20,000,
pursuant to Section 21(d)(3) of the Exchange Act [15 U.S.C. § 78u(d)(3)]. Defendant shall satisfy
these obligations by paying $24,785.17 to the Securities and Exchange Commission within 30
days after entry of this Final Judgment.
Defendant may transmit payment electronically to the Commission, which will provide
detailed ACH transfer/Fedwire instructions upon request. Payment may also be made directly
from a bank account via Pay.gov through the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov/about/
offices/ofm.htm. Defendant may also pay by certified check, bank cashier’s check, or United
States postal money order payable to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which shall be
delivered or mailed to:
Enterprise Services Center
Accounts Receivable Branch
6500 South MacArthur Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73169
and shall be accompanied by a letter identifying the case title, civil action number, and name of
this Court; Prager Metis CPAs LLP as a defendant in this action; and specifying that payment is
made pursuant to this Final Judgment.
Defendant shall simultaneously transmit photocopies of evidence of payment and case
identifying information to the Commission’s counsel in this action. By making this payment,
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 6 of 7
6
Defendant relinquishes all legal and equitable right, title, and interest in such funds and no part of
the funds shall be returned to Defendant. The Commission shall send the funds paid pursuant to
this Final Judgment to the United States Treasury.
The Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for disgorgement and prejudgment
interest by using all collection procedures authorized by law, including, but not limited to, moving
for civil contempt at any time after 30 days following entry of this Final Judgment. The
Commission may enforce the Court’s judgment for penalties by the use of all collection procedures
authorized by law, including the Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act, 28 U.S.C. § 3001 et seq.,
and moving for civil contempt for the violation of any Court orders issued in this action.
Defendant shall pay post judgment interest on any amounts due after 30 days of the entry
of this Final Judgment pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1961.
III.
INCORPORATION OF CONSENT
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that the Consent is
incorporated herein with the same force and effect as if fully set forth herein, and that Defendant
shall comply with all of the undertakings and agreements set forth therein.
IV.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, ADJUDGED, AND DECREED that this Court shall
retain jurisdiction of this matter for the purposes of enforcing the terms of this Final Judgment.
DONE AND ORDERED, in Miami, Florida, on ______________, 2024.
________________________________
UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
Copies to:
Counsel of record
Case 1:23-cv-23723-RNS Document 41-4 Entered on FLSD Docket 09/17/2024 Page 7 of 7
DE 41 Plaintiff's Unopposed Motion for Entry of Final Judgments Against Defendants Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, and Prager Metis CPAs LLP
DE 41-1 Ex. 1 Consent of Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLC to Final Judgment
DE 41-2 Ex.2 Consent of Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLP to Final Judgment
DE 41-3 Ex. 3 [Proposed] Final Judgment as to Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLC
DE 41-4 Ex. 4 [Proposed] Final Judgment as to Defendant Prager Metis CPAs LLP