Early Life and Beginnings
Don Lapre was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, where his formative years were marked by a mix of ambition and adversity. Growing up in a middle-class family, he displayed an early interest in entrepreneurship, often looking for ways to earn money through small ventures. Lapre’s childhood experiences instilled in him a determination to succeed, paving the way for his future endeavors in the business world. Who would have known back then he would be on every late night TV at some point or how it would end.
In pursuit of greater opportunities, Lapre made a significant move to Phoenix, Arizona, in the mid-1990s. This relocation was a critical juncture in his life, allowing him to immerse himself in a more dynamic environment that fostered entrepreneurial spirit. It was in Arizona that he began to develop his first business ideas, which revolved primarily around the burgeoning field of multi-level marketing (MLM) and infomercials.
In addition to his business pursuits, Lapre’s personal life also flourished during this period. He married Sally Redondo, a partnership that would support him through various phases of his career. Their relationship became a significant source of stability as Lapre navigated the challenges associated with his entrepreneurial endeavors. With Sally by his side, he began to conceptualize and develop products that would later become staples in his marketing strategies. The combination of his early business ventures, supportive marriage, and a relentless drive to innovate would ultimately set the stage for Lapre’s later success in the infomercial industry. Lapre, with his wife, started a business called Unknown Concepts in 1990 which repaired credit . Lapre then began selling a 36-page booklet on how to recover an insurance refund from the Federal Housing Administration after paying off a home mortgage.
The Infomercial Empire
Donald D. Lapre emerged as a prominent figure in the world of multi-level marketing (MLM) and infomercials during the 90’s. His journey to fame can be attributed to his innovative marketing strategies and catchy products, prominently featuring ‘The Greatest Vitamin in the World’ and ‘Making Money Secrets.’ These products not only appealed to consumers looking for health supplements but also catered to individuals striving for financial independence through his MLM approach. On TV infomercials Lapre claimed that by placing “tiny classified ads” in newspapers he was “able to make $50,000 a week from his tiny one-bedroom apartment”. I can still here those Lapre boasting about his success from placing those ads and the “900” phone lines he used as well.
Lapre’s infomercials were characterized by a unique blend of enthusiasm and persuasive messaging. The ‘Making Money Show’ standed out as one of his notable presentations, showcasing a series of bold claims regarding financial success. Through a mixture of engaging storytelling and testimonials, he cultivated a sense of urgency and aspiration among his viewers, thus boosting sales and brand recognition. The infomercial’s structure often included direct calls to action, encouraging potential customers to pick up the phone and order immediately, which further enhanced his sales performance. Regardless of what you thought of Lapre, you had to admit he made you think about buying his Making Money Package until you came back to your senses and convinced yourself it couldn’t be that easy or everyone would be doing it with success. Lapre had charisma and he was smart. He placed himself on a beach during some of his infomercials, giving the image that he was living it up due to his success that you could have too by buying his product.
Introduction to Lapre’s Scheme
In June 2011, a federal grand jury in Phoenix, Arizona, Lapre on serious allegations of running a nationwide scheme that sold worthless internet businesses. This case brought to light the extent of fraudulent activities occurring online and highlighted the dangers faced by unsuspecting victims.
Federal prosecutors accused Lapre of defrauding over 220,000 individuals, which resulted in a staggering loss of nearly $52 million. The indictment included 41 counts of conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud, and various forms of money laundering. Such extensive charges reveal not only the magnitude of Lapre’s actions but also the sophisticated nature of the fraudulent scheme that ensnared many vulnerable individuals into buying essentially worthless businesses.
Lapre’s Downward Spiral
Compounding the tragedy, a bench warrant was issued for Lapre’s arrest after he failed to appear at his arraignment. Just days later, he was found in a Life Time Fitness center in Tempe, Arizona, with severe self-inflicted injuries, suggesting a suicide attempt. Tragically, Lapre’s life ended on October 2, 2011, while he awaited trial. An autopsy report confirmed he died from massive blood loss after cutting his throat, exhibiting the profound depths of despair he experienced.
This poignant case serves as a chilling reminder of the potential consequences of deception, fraud, and unchecked despair, affecting not just the victims but also the perpetrators involved.
You Still Remember Him Though
If you were up late in the 90’s or paid any attention to the culture back then, you somehow heard of Don Lapre. He was a fixture of the late night infomercial craze. Thinking back there were so many but to me, the big three infomercial fixtures of the 90’s/early 2000’s was Don Lapre, Tony Little and The ShamWow Guy. We have to look back at those two in the future as well!