A film production accountant from Woodland Hills has pleaded guilty to embezzling funds from independent film productions that employed him. Joshua Mandel, 48, admitted to six counts of wire fraud in federal court.
According to court documents, Mandel owned First J Productions Inc., based in Woodland Hills, where he served as CEO and chief financial officer. He worked as a production accountant for independent films, overseeing cash flow, payroll, and expenses. Mandel was also an authorized user on the bank accounts of production companies and managed prepaid debit cards issued by CASHét Card, which are commonly used in the film industry.
Between 2019 and 2023, Mandel diverted funds from the productions by writing unauthorized checks, making unauthorized wire transfers, and moving money into a CASHét Card account he controlled called “Fun Fun Fun.” Authorities say he concealed his actions by using money from one company to pay expenses for another.
Law enforcement estimates that Mandel embezzled nearly $2 million. The funds were allegedly used to support his lifestyle. This included payments totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars to various young women, including pornographic actresses; more than $129,000 paid to a woman he met through a “sugar daddy” website; over $24,000 spent at Las Vegas hotels, clubs, and shows; and purchases exceeding $12,000 at Louis Vuitton.
United States District Judge John F. Walter set sentencing for May 4. Mandel faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count. He is currently free on a $25,000 bond.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander B. Schwab and Lauren E. Border are prosecuting the matter.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California handles both criminal prosecutions and civil matters for the government while serving over 19 million residents across seven counties in Southern California. The office works with law enforcement partners at all levels to promote public safety and supports community outreach programs focused on victim assistance and public education.
