According to FINRA, John A. Perez-Cubero (CRD #6674954), formerly based in Bound Brook, New Jersey, was barred from association with any FINRA member firm in all capacities effective September 11, 2024. The bar was imposed through an Acceptance, Waiver, and Consent (AWC) agreement after Perez-Cubero refused to produce information and documents requested by FINRA during an investigation that originated from a Form U5 filed by his member firm. The Form U5 disclosed that Perez-Cubero had been terminated due to allegations of an unauthorized disbursement from a customer's checking account that was covered by an unauthorized transfer from the customer's brokerage account. Although Perez-Cubero initially cooperated with FINRA's investigation by providing documents and information and appearing for testimony, he ultimately ceased doing so. Without admitting or denying the findings, Perez-Cubero consented to the sanction. The underlying allegations involve unauthorized movement of customer funds, which is one of the most serious forms of misconduct in the securities industry. An unauthorized disbursement from a customer's checking account, funded by an unauthorized transfer from a brokerage account, suggests a pattern of converting customer assets without permission. This type of conduct, often referred to as conversion or misappropriation, directly harms investors by depriving them of their own money and violates fundamental principles of trust that underpin the broker-client relationship. Securities regulators treat unauthorized movement of customer funds with the highest level of scrutiny because it strikes at the core of investor confidence in the financial system. For investors, this case underscores the critical importance of monitoring your accounts regularly. Review every transaction on your brokerage and bank statements, and immediately question any transfers or withdrawals that you did not authorize. Most firms provide online access to account activity, making it easier than ever to stay informed about movements in your accounts. If you discover unauthorized activity, report it immediately to the firm's compliance department, to FINRA, and to your state securities regulator. FINRA's BrokerCheck tool allows you to research the history of any registered broker, including any terminations, complaints, or regulatory actions. Perez-Cubero's permanent bar from the industry ensures he is no longer permitted to work with any FINRA-registered firm.