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Lafayette Today
By the People, for the People
Lafayette Attorney Sentenced in $790M DC Solar Fraud Scheme
Ari Lauer received over 11 years in prison for his role in the billion-dollar Ponzi scheme.
Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:05am
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A Lafayette, California, attorney named Ari Lauer has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison for his involvement in a billion-dollar Ponzi scheme centered around DC Solar, a company that claimed to manufacture mobile solar generators. Lauer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, along with multiple counts of bank and wire fraud, for providing legal legitimacy to DC Solar's fraudulent activities as outside counsel.
Why it matters
The DC Solar case highlights the potential risks within the rapidly expanding green energy investment sector, where the allure of generous tax credits and demand for sustainable solutions can create an environment ripe for exploitation. It serves as a stark warning to attorneys and other professionals about the critical importance of thorough due diligence and independent verification of claims, especially in emerging industries.
The details
DC Solar attracted investors with the promise of substantial tax credits associated with renewable energy. Investors purchased mobile solar generators (MSGs) without taking possession of them, financing the purchases through DC Solar and then leasing the generators back to the company. DC Solar then purported to lease these generators to third parties, with a portion of the lease revenue intended to cover investor debts and provide returns. However, prosecutors discovered that approximately 94% of DC Solar's claimed revenue originated from novel investor funds, a classic hallmark of a Ponzi scheme.
- Lauer was sentenced on March 16, 2026.
- Lauer pleaded guilty in December 2025.
The players
Ari Lauer
A 61-year-old attorney from Lafayette, California, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, along with multiple counts of bank and wire fraud, for his role in providing legal legitimacy to DC Solar's fraudulent activities as outside counsel.
Jeff Carpoff
The principal behind DC Solar, who received a 30-year sentence and a $790.6 million restitution order.
Paulette Carpoff
Jeff Carpoff's wife, who was sentenced to 11 years and three months in prison.
Ronald Roach
A co-conspirator who is awaiting sentencing and faces up to 10 years in prison.
What’s next
The judge in Lauer's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail pending his appeal.
The takeaway
The DC Solar fraud case highlights the potential risks within the rapidly expanding green energy investment sector, where the allure of generous tax credits and demand for sustainable solutions can create an environment ripe for exploitation. Investors must exercise caution and conduct thorough due diligence before committing capital to any complex financial scheme, especially those promising high returns with limited risk.
