FINRA Suspends Broker Efrain Trujillo After Borrowing Money From Customers

Efrain Trujillo (CRD# 3106482) is a previously registered broker and investment advisor whose last known employer was Western International Securities, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA. His previous employers were Financial West Group and SRM Securities, Incorporated. Trujillo was in the securities industry since 1998.

Trujillo has three FINRA actions in his CRD. The most recent is an eight-month suspension stemming from his borrowing money from nine customers totaling $335,000. Out of fifteen loans, he failed to sign promissory notes for seven. He has repaid nine of the loans and is currently repaying the remaining six. Trujillo also falsely claimed on Western’s compliance questionnaires that he never borrowed money from any of his clients. FINRA fined Trujillo $5,000 and suspended him from 10/17/2022 through 06/16/2023.

Trujillo also failed to obtain approval for these loans and failed to notify his firm that he borrowed money from the customers. Both are violation of the firm’s policies. After discovering the loans, Western International Securities terminated Trujillo’s employment on 10/26/2021.

FINRA arbitration is a dispute resolution process offered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to resolve conflicts between investors, brokerage firms, and individual brokers. Unlike traditional court litigation, arbitration is typically faster and less formal. In this process, an impartial arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators listens to both parties’ arguments and evidence before making a binding decision. This method is often chosen for its efficiency and lower costs, making it an attractive option for investors seeking resolution without the complexities of a court trial. The arbitration process is governed by specific rules and procedures, ensuring a fair and equitable hearing. While the decision is final and generally cannot be appealed, parties can still settle the dispute before the arbitration concludes. FINRA arbitration serves as a crucial mechanism in maintaining market integrity and protecting investors’ rights.