Attorneys ask for delay in SC silver scheme

GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — Attorneys for a former Anderson County councilman accused of running a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme say they need more time before appearing in court.

Ronnie Wilson had been scheduled for a hearing in Greenville on May 15. But Wilson’s attorneys on Thursday asked a judge for a 60-day delay, a request with which they say prosecutors agree.

Earlier this month, Wilson was charged with mail fraud after authorities said he took millions of dollars from investors through his business, Atlantic Bullion & Coin, but never actually bought them the silver bullion he promised.

Prosecutors say more than 900 people invested about $90 million with Wilson, who altered receipts to increase the precious metal’s purchase price when a customer went to cash it in so he could keep the scheme going.