According to FINRA, Robert Charles Starnes was barred from association with any FINRA member in all capacities for refusing to appear for on-the-record testimony requested by FINRA in connection with a matter that originated from a customer complaint made to FINRA.

Customer complaints are an important source of information about potential misconduct in the securities industry. When FINRA receives customer complaints, it investigates to determine whether violations occurred and whether other customers may have been harmed. Registered representatives are required to cooperate with these investigations.

Starnes' refusal to testify about the customer complaint prevented FINRA from determining the facts and assessing whether investor protection measures were needed. This lack of cooperation resulted in his permanent expulsion from the industry, demonstrating that FINRA takes seriously the obligation to participate in investigations designed to protect investors.