Jury begins deliberations in the Craig Case trial involving multiple felonies and financial theft and conspiracy

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — A Santa Barbara Superior Court jury is now deliberating the fate of security company owner and part-time TV host Craig Case, who faces multiple felony charges related to financial theft allegations.

Santa Barbara County Senior Deputy District Attorney Brian Cota delivered his closing arguments, summarizing financial transactions that led to the charges.

Cota reminded jurors that Case had developed a close relationship with Nancy Coglizer, who held power of attorney for wealthy Montecito resident Constance McCormack Fearing, now deceased. During the time of the alleged crimes, Case asked Coglizer if Fearing could provide him with a short-term loan, and she complied without consulting Fearing.

That practice continued, with some of the loans structured as $5,000 checks to avoid scrutiny from banks regarding larger transactions.

The prosecution alleged that Case frequently converted the checks into cash or cashier’s checks, which he deposited into his mother’s account at one of the two banks he used. The money was then withdrawn to conceal the transactions.

The loans had no formal terms and, according to court testimony, were never repaid.

Coglizer admitted to writing the checks and acknowledged struggling with alcohol at the time of her financial dealings with Case.

For the defense, attorney George Steele argued that the money was always intended as a loan to Case and did not constitute a crime. He insisted that Case did nothing illegal.

Jurors were also reminded of a forgery charge against Case related to a concealed weapons permit, as well as his history of financial issues involving past taxes and liens.

The prosecution portrayed Case as a manipulative con artist, calling him a “predator” and a “fraud.” Cota outlined how con artists identify victims and gradually gain access to their money.

When financial irregularities surfaced, the prosecution said, Case became unavailable to meet or discuss repayment. During the alleged crime period, he was in frequent contact with Coglizer in person, via text, and over the phone.

Case has remained in custody since July 2023.

He appeared in court in a wheelchair, wearing a suit.

He did not take the stand in his defense.