Scott Rothstein's Ponzi scheme began in the early 2000s, when he started selling fake settlements to investors, promising them high returns. The scheme was elaborate, with Rothstein using the money from new investors to pay off earlier investors, while keeping a large portion for himself. The scheme eventually collapsed in 2009, when investors began to demand their money back. Rothstein was arrested and charged with racketeering and conspiracy. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. The Rothstein case highlighted the need for greater regulation and oversight of investment schemes, and it led to changes in the way that law firms and financial institutions monitor their employees' activities. The case also had a significant impact on the Florida economy, with many businesses and individuals losing large sums of money in the scheme.