The Con

Patrick Lovell goes to Akron, Ohio, hometown of Addie Polk, a 91-year-old widow victimized by predatory lending. As deputies arrive, Addie would shoot herself rather than face eviction. While in Akron, Lovell discovers that there were also authorities who saw the warning signs and successfully investigated and brought RICO charges for smaller scale versions of the crimes happening nationally.

Addie Polk’s mortgage documents were forged. Scams were becoming systematized and replicated nationwide. The roots of the avarice, however, began decades earlier in the S&L crisis. Michael Winston acts steadfast as Countrywide retaliates.

As fraudulent mortgages pour into Wall Street, they distribute the toxic assets throughout the economy in the form of derivatives. Rita Lewis fights for pensions in the name of her deceased husband. Richard Bowen uncovers fraud at Citi.

Pastor Harrison contemplates the meaning of Addie's story. Pecora Hearings bring real change and 50 years of economic stability. With regulators and regulations out of site, the stage is set for the Great Financial Crisis.

The Federal government rushes to Wall Street aid while ignoring the millions of Americans. The revolving door between Wall Street and DC as well as hundreds of millions of dollars spent in lobbying ensure the continuation of THE CON.