According to FINRA, Johnathan Paul Hagood (CRD #6778355), a registered representative based in Los Angeles, California, was barred from the securities industry effective January 8, 2024, for failure to provide information or keep information current pursuant to FINRA Rule 9552(h). The associated FINRA Case number is 2023077635001.
FINRA Rule 9552(h) provides the authority for FINRA to permanently bar individuals from the securities industry when they fail to cooperate with regulatory investigations by not providing requested information. This rule is a cornerstone of FINRA's enforcement program because it ensures that no individual can evade regulatory scrutiny simply by refusing to respond to inquiries. The securities industry operates on the principle of transparency and accountability, and individuals who reject these principles are deemed unfit to serve the investing public.
The bar imposed on Johnathan Paul Hagood means that he is permanently prohibited from associating with any FINRA member firm. This prohibition extends to all capacities, whether as a registered representative, a principal, a supervisory employee, or any other associated person role. The bar is recorded in FINRA's Central Registration Depository and will appear on Hagood's BrokerCheck record indefinitely, serving as a permanent public record of this regulatory action.
When FINRA requests information from a registered representative, it is typically doing so as part of an investigation into potential rule violations or misconduct. The nature of the underlying investigation is not disclosed in the expedited proceeding, but the failure to respond is itself treated as a standalone violation. FINRA has consistently maintained that cooperation with investigations is a non-negotiable obligation for all registered individuals, and the consequences for non-compliance are severe.
For investors in the Los Angeles area and beyond who may have worked with Johnathan Paul Hagood, this action is an important development to be aware of. Investors should verify that their accounts have been properly handled and transitioned to another qualified representative if necessary. More broadly, this case reminds all investors of the importance of regularly checking the disciplinary records of their financial professionals. FINRA's BrokerCheck tool is freely available and provides detailed information about the registration history, qualifications, and any disciplinary actions associated with individual brokers and firms. Making use of this tool is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself as an investor.
