Warning: Pierre Moran aka Peter Moran
Found Civilly Liable for Fraud and Misrepresentation
Unanimous Appellate Ruling
The appellate court unanimously upheld the $1.6 million jury verdict and affirmed the lower court’s findings of intentional fraud.
Judicial Findings of Fraud
The trial court found that Moran knowingly and intentionally made misrepresentations to induce investment... and that these misrepresentations were a substantial factor in causing [the plaintiff’s] loss.
Moran's conduct was not merely negligent or reckless — the court concluded it was fraudulent under California Civil Code § 1572.
Damages Awarded
The trial court awarded $1,687,760 in compensatory damages to the plaintiff... based on fraudulent inducement and breach of fiduciary duty.
The court further awarded $50,000 in punitive damages, citing 'clear and convincing evidence' of malice, oppression, and fraud.
Documented Pattern of Deception and Misconduct
Recurring investor deception across state lines: Multiple witnesses described nearly identical schemes executed by Moran across different jurisdictions and time periods—fabricated credentials, investment inducements, and repeated failures to return funds. (pp. 12–13)
False academic and professional claims: Moran persistently asserted he held degrees from institutions like Harvard and NYU. At trial, he failed to produce any verification—and the court found no such degrees exist. (pp. 10–11)
Diversion of investor capital for personal use: Rather than legitimate business expenses, Moran charged personal purchases to business accounts and moved funds via PayPal and credit cards without supporting documentation. (pp. 10–11)
Forgery and blame-shifting during litigation: He submitted a falsified résumé and, when challenged, attempted to deflect responsibility by accusing the plaintiff of altering it. The court rejected these claims. (p. 10)
Disruptive and manipulative courtroom conduct: Moran’s courtroom behavior was so egregious that the judge ultimately barred him from testifying, stating his ongoing participation would “make a mockery of the judicial system.” (pp. 8, 16)
Read More
The original fraud trial that resulted in a unanimous jury verdict against Peter Moran is publicly accessible. To review the full case history, visit the Santa Clara County court portal and search for Case No. 20CV369050.
📄 Download Full Court Opinion (PDF)