Prosecuting attorney Adam Duerk is depicting Bozeman lawyer Michael Rabb as an owner with decision-making authority in an alleged Ponzi scheme.

Tuesday was the second day of the District Court trial, where Rabb, 44, faces six felony counts for his connection with hemp start-up Isotex Health LLC in 2019 and 2020. Allegations the state levies against Rabb include conspiracy to operate a pyramid Ponzi scheme, securities fraud, operating as a commodities dealer without a license, forgery and false claims to a public agency, according to court proceedings.

The battle lines were drawn with Duerk’s first words to a 12-member jury, painting Rabb as a driving force.

“This case is about a lawyer who became a part owner...a lawyer who appears to have been involved on every important phone call, wa

See Full Page