The Man Behind Cortes Campers and US Lighting Group (USLG)
From Engineer to Executive to Federal Defendant
Paul Spivak built his reputation in Euclid, Ohio, as a self-described engineer and inventor, overseeing the design of fiberglass boats and campers. But behind the glossy marketing of innovation was a much darker story — one that culminated in a federal criminal conviction for securities and wire fraud.
In October 2024, a jury in the Northern District of Ohio found Spivak guilty of:
- Conspiracy to commit securities fraud
- Two counts of wire fraud
He later pleaded guilty to additional charges of securities and wire fraud tied to a related investment scheme.
In April 2025, Spivak was sentenced to 17 years and 5 months in federal prison, fined $200,000, and ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice
What the Federal Case Revealed
According to the Department of Justice, Spivak and his associates used US Lighting Group (USLG) as the centerpiece of a multi-year stock manipulation scheme.
- They ran a pump-and-dump operation, inflating the value of USLG through aggressive cold calls and deceptive marketing.
- Between 2016 and 2019, investors poured in approximately $6.9 million.
- Roughly $2 million was secretly paid to unlicensed brokers as “commissions.”
- Even after federal agents began investigating, Spivak continued the fraud, working with undercover officers posing as new partners.
DOJ conviction announcement (Oct 2024)
Cortes Campers: Another Chapter in the Story
Cortes Campers LLC was promoted by USLG as one of its key “new technology” divisions, manufacturing fiberglass campers and boats. While the company positioned itself as innovative, many buyers have since reported delayed deliveries, warranty disputes, and incomplete or misleading communication.
Though Cortes Campers’ marketing presents itself as a fresh, stand-alone business, its origins trace directly back to Spivak’s control of USLG and his network of affiliated companies. The overlap in leadership, operations, and even factory locations between the two entities has made it difficult for consumers to determine who is responsible for refund decisions, warranty service, or legal accountability.
Why This Matters for Consumers
- Spivak’s criminal record shows a pattern of misrepresentation and financial manipulation.
- His conviction demonstrates a failure of oversight at the corporate level.
- Customers report similar behavior at Cortes Campers — broken commitments, missing refunds, and silence when demanding answers.
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