March, 2025 | Based in Alpharetta, GA
If you’ve suffered financial losses while working with Theodore Michael Jenkin, don’t hesitate to reach out today. Call 800-950-6553 or complete our online form to schedule your no-obligation case evaluation and learn about your options for recovery.
Critical Information About Theodore Michael Jenkin
- Full Name: Theodore Michael Jenkin
- CRD Number: 2169338
- Current Location: Alpharetta, GA
- Current Employer: Exit Wealth Advisors, LLC (Chief Marketing Officer)
- Registration Status: Not currently registered as a broker
- Previous Employers:
- Kestra Investment Services, LLC (09/2015 – 08/2023)
- Investacorp, Inc. (08/2008 – 09/2015)
- Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. (08/1991 – 09/2008)
- Professional Designations: Certified Financial Planner
- FINRA BrokerCheck: Shows 3 customer disputes and 1 termination
- Experience: In the industry since 1991
- Ability to Recover Losses: May be subject to FINRA arbitration claims
The Investigation Into Theodore Michael Jenkin’s Investment Practices
Theodore Michael Jenkin, a former financial advisor with a career spanning over three decades, is currently under investigation for alleged investment misconduct and misrepresentations to clients. The investigation focuses on serious allegations of unsuitable investment recommendations, particularly relating to conservation easements, and potential violations of securities regulations.
Jenkin, who worked with several prominent firms including Kestra Investment Services, Investacorp, and Ameriprise Financial, is no longer registered as a broker with FINRA – raising serious red flags about his conduct in the industry. His BrokerCheck report reveals a troubling history of customer disputes and a termination that suggest a pattern of problematic behavior that investors should be aware of.
For investors who entrusted their financial futures to Jenkin, these developments are extremely concerning. If you’ve worked with Theodore Jenkin and have concerns about your investments, it’s crucial to understand your rights and potential avenues for recovery.
Background and Professional History
Theodore Jenkin began his career in the financial services industry in 1991 with Ameriprise Financial Services, where he remained until 2008. He then moved to Investacorp, Inc. until 2015, followed by Kestra Investment Services, LLC until August 2023. According to his employment history, he now serves as Chief Marketing Officer for Exit Wealth Advisors, LLC, but is no longer registered as a securities broker.
Throughout his career, Jenkin obtained various securities licenses, including:
- General Securities Principal Examination (Series 24)
- General Securities Representative Examination (Series 7)
- Securities Industry Essentials Examination (SIE)
- Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination (Series 65)
- Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination (Series 63)
He also held the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, which suggests he portrayed himself as a fiduciary committed to acting in the best interests of his clients. However, his regulatory history raises serious questions about whether he consistently upheld this standard.
Disclosure Events and Customer Complaints
Jenkin’s FINRA BrokerCheck report reveals a concerning history of customer disputes and regulatory issues:
1. Conservation Easement Investigation (Pending)
Most recently, in April 2023, Jenkin was named in a FINRA arbitration claim (Case #23-00834) alleging that he recommended and misrepresented investments in conservation easements. The claimants are seeking damages of $100,000. This case is currently pending, and Jenkin denies the allegations, claiming that the claimants were never his personal clients.
Conservation easements have come under intense regulatory scrutiny in recent years, with the IRS designating certain syndicated conservation easement transactions as “listed transactions” that may constitute tax avoidance schemes. These investments often promise substantial tax deductions that can exceed the amount invested, raising red flags for regulators.
2. Unsuitable Bond Investments (Settled)
In April 2009, while Jenkin was with Ameriprise Financial Services, customers alleged that he was associated with the recommendation of unsuitable bond investments. The claim resulted in a settlement of $81,202.71, with $22,202.71 specifically attributed to Jenkin’s actions. Although Jenkin denied wrongdoing and stated he was not the customers’ account representative, the firm’s review indicated violations of company policy.
3. Unauthorized Investment Allegations (Denied)
In July 2012, while at Investacorp, clients alleged they were not suitable for an investment they purchased and that the investment was unauthorized. The complaint involved a Direct Participation Program (DPP) or Limited Partnership interest with an original investment amount of $750,000. The firm denied the complaint.
4. Employment Termination After Allegations
Perhaps most concerning is Jenkin’s termination from Investacorp in September 2015. According to FINRA records, he was discharged for “failure to follow rules and firm policy regarding approved investments,” specifically relating to conservation easement investments. While Jenkin claimed to have followed all policies and procedures, and noted that FINRA reviewed and closed the matter without action, his subsequent employment at Kestra Investment Services ended in August 2023 – and he is no longer registered as a broker.
Red Flags and Warning Signs for Investors
The pattern of allegations against Theodore Michael Jenkin highlights several red flags that investors should be aware of:
1. Conservation Easement Investments
The most recent allegations against Jenkin involve conservation easements, which have been the subject of significant regulatory scrutiny. The IRS has designated certain syndicated conservation easement transactions as potentially abusive tax shelters, and investors should be extremely cautious about advisors promoting these vehicles.
2. Unsuitable Investment Recommendations
Multiple allegations against Jenkin involve unsuitable investment recommendations, suggesting he may have prioritized his own interests over those of his clients. Financial advisors have a regulatory obligation to recommend investments that are appropriate for each client’s individual financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment objectives.
3. Misrepresentation of Investment Products
Allegations of misrepresentation suggest Jenkin may not have fully or accurately disclosed the risks, features, or costs of investment products to clients. Investment advisors are required to provide full and fair disclosure of all material facts about recommended investments.
4. Unauthorized Trading
One complaint alleged unauthorized investments, which, if true, would represent a serious breach of fiduciary duty. Financial advisors must obtain client consent before executing trades in their accounts.
5. Regulatory Red Flags
Jenkin’s termination from Investacorp for failure to follow firm policies regarding approved investments, coupled with the fact that he is no longer registered as a broker, raises serious concerns about his compliance with industry regulations.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
Financial advisors like Theodore Michael Jenkin are subject to numerous regulations designed to protect investors:
FINRA Rules
- Rule 2010: Requires brokers to observe high standards of commercial honor and just and equitable principles of trade.
- Rule 2111: The suitability rule requires that brokers have a reasonable basis to believe that a recommended transaction or investment strategy is suitable for the customer.
- Rule 2020: Prohibits manipulative and deceptive devices.
- Rule 3110: Requires firms to establish and maintain a system to supervise the activities of each associated person.
SEC Regulations
The Securities and Exchange Commission enforces various regulations, including:
- The fiduciary duty for investment advisers to act in the best interest of clients
- Disclosure requirements for conflicts of interest
- Prohibitions against fraudulent, deceptive, or manipulative practices
Tax Laws and Conservation Easements
The IRS has specifically targeted syndicated conservation easement transactions as potentially abusive tax shelters. In Notice 2017-10, the IRS designated certain of these transactions as “listed transactions” requiring special disclosure by participants and material advisors.
Guidance for Investors Who Worked with Theodore Michael Jenkin
If you were a client of Theodore Michael Jenkin and are concerned about your investments, consider taking the following steps:
1. Review Your Investment Portfolio and Account Statements
Carefully review all investment recommendations made by Jenkin and assess their performance and suitability for your financial situation. Look for:
- Investments that have lost significant value
- Investments you don’t understand or that weren’t fully explained
- Unauthorized transactions
- Excessive fees or commissions
- Conservation easement investments or other tax-oriented strategies
2. Document Everything
Gather and organize all documentation related to your relationship with Jenkin, including:
- Account statements
- Trade confirmations
- Emails, letters, and other communications
- Marketing materials for recommended investments
- Notes from meetings or phone calls
3. Understand the Statute of Limitations
Be aware that there are time limitations for filing claims against financial advisors:
- FINRA arbitration claims generally must be filed within six years of the event giving rise to the claim.
- State securities laws may provide different statutes of limitations.
- For tax-related matters, the IRS generally has three years from the date you filed your return to audit and assess additional taxes.
4. Consider a Professional Review
Have your investment portfolio reviewed by an independent financial professional who can provide an objective assessment of the suitability of your investments and identify potential misconduct.
5. Consult with an Experienced Securities Attorney
If you suspect misconduct, consult with an attorney specializing in securities law and investment fraud. An experienced attorney can help you evaluate potential claims and determine the best course of action.
How Our Law Firm Can Help Recover Your Investment Losses
Our firm specializes in representing investors who have been victims of investment fraud, unsuitable recommendations, and other forms of financial advisor misconduct. If you worked with Theodore Michael Jenkin and believe you may have been harmed, we can help in several ways:
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your potential claims. Our attorneys will review your investment history, account statements, and communications to identify potential violations of securities laws and regulations.
FINRA Arbitration Representation
Most disputes with brokers and brokerage firms are resolved through FINRA arbitration rather than court litigation. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing investors in FINRA arbitration proceedings and can guide you through this specialized process.
Forensic Analysis of Trading Patterns
We work with financial experts to analyze trading patterns, investment performance, and fee structures to identify evidence of misconduct such as unsuitable recommendations, excessive trading (churning), or undisclosed conflicts of interest.
Recovery on a Contingency Fee Basis
We handle investment fraud cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover money for you. This aligns our interests with yours and makes quality legal representation accessible regardless of your current financial situation.
Tax Implications Guidance
For cases involving tax-oriented investments like conservation easements, we can coordinate with tax professionals to address potential IRS issues related to disallowed deductions or penalties.
Don’t wait to protect your financial future if you’ve experienced losses while working with Theodore Michael Jenkin. Reach out to our experienced team by calling 800-950-6553 or submitting our online contact form to arrange your complimentary case review and take the first step toward possible recovery.
