Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
FINRA barred Elias Gerodemos (CRD #7510054), a Crown Point, Indiana broker, after he refused to provide information and documents that FINRA requested. An AWC dated July 30, 2026 records the bar.
According to the AWC, Gerodemos consented to the sanction and to the entry of findings. He did so without admitting or denying the findings.
According to the findings, the matter began with FINRA's review of a Form U5 filed by his member firm. That Form U5 disclosed criminal felony charges against him and his termination for violation of the firm's Code of Conduct.
During its investigation, FINRA requested information and documents from Elias Gerodemos. The findings state that he refused to provide them.
FINRA resolved the matter against Elias Gerodemos through an AWC dated July 30, 2026. The AWC carries FINRA Case #2026090419801.
As a result, FINRA barred Gerodemos from association with any FINRA member in all capacities.
FINRA Rule 8210 lets FINRA require documents, information, and on-the-record testimony during an investigation. The rule covers member firms and the people who work for them. Refusing to comply is also a violation in itself. As a result, a refusal often leads to a bar from the securities industry.
FINRA member firms must supervise the activities of their brokers. If you have questions about an account that Elias Gerodemos handled, call Soreide Law Group at (888) 760-6552. You can also reach us online to speak with a securities attorney. Our securities lawyers handle FINRA arbitration claims on a contingency fee basis. Learn how FINRA arbitration works.
This post summarizes public FINRA records, including BrokerCheck, as of September 30, 2026. In a FINRA Letter of Acceptance, Waiver and Consent, the respondent settles without admitting or denying the findings. FINRA may also update or correct these records after that date.
Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
William Tunink (CRD: 2738224) settled a customer claim for $299,000 on August 11, 2026, according to his BrokerCheck report. The customer alleged that he obtained loans from the customer, and that some of the money went into an investment.
Tony Barouti (CRD: 3031995) faces a pending $230,400 customer claim, according to his BrokerCheck report. He says the allegations in it are false. His report also lists SEC administrative and cease-and-desist proceedings from August 2025.
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