Robert Wilson, a former Chief Executive Officer and Investment Advisor Representative at Black Diamond Asset Management, has filed a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit against the United States of America and the State of New York. Wilson accuses the defendants of retaliatory actions following his reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding securities law violations.
The case stems from Wilson’s allegations that during his tenure at Black Diamond Asset Management, he uncovered a fraudulent scheme involving securities manipulation, specifically a “pump and dump” operation concerning Al Document Services (AIDC). On July 22, 2015, Wilson reported these findings to the SEC. Following this disclosure, he claims to have faced retaliation by federal and state entities. According to the complaint, these retaliatory measures included false arrest, removal of professional responsibilities through unfounded SEC allegations, threats of bankruptcy, government harassment, litigation pressure, and termination from his business roles.
Wilson argues that these actions violated whistleblower protections under federal law. He cites the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, both of which provide protections for individuals who report corporate fraud or securities violations. Wilson also contends that certain acts infringed constitutional provisions under Article I, Section 8, Clause 15 of the U.S. Constitution and rights under the Ninth Amendment.
In the complaint, Wilson seeks reinstatement to his former position or, alternatively, front pay if reinstatement is not feasible. He also seeks back pay with interest and double back pay as permitted under Dodd-Frank, compensatory damages for emotional distress and reputational harm, punitive damages where available, and attorneys’ fees and related legal expenses.
The plaintiff is representing himself in this matter. The case was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York under Case No. 2:25-cv-05132-EK-ST and is presided over by Judge Eric Komitee and Magistrate Judge Steven Tiscione.