Testimony ends in Burnlounge music store case

COLUMBIA — The federal lawsuit that alleges former University of South Carolina football star Rob DeBoer was involved in the pyramid scheme is in the hands of a judge.

Testimony recently ended in the case over Burnlounge, a New York online music store operator that attracted many investors from the Columbia area.

The Federal Trade Commission sued Burnlounge executives and top recruiters, claiming the business was a pyramid scheme that rewarded investors for recruiting more people into the business, not selling music.

Federal officials have said DeBoer was Burnlounge's top recruiter.

A federal judge in Los Angles is awaiting legal opinions from federal regulators and the defendants, said David Fix, an FTC attorney. A decision in the case could come later this month, he said.

DeBoer declined comment Monday. The 37-year-old Irmo resident has denied any wrongdoing in the past.

In 2006 and 2007, Columbia was a hub for Burnlounge, which allowed people to open online music stores. It promoted the involvement of local celebrities, including former Clemson head football coach Danny Ford; USC assistant coach Steve Spurrier Jr.; the band Hootie & the Blowfish; and ex-USC football players Todd Ellis and George Rogers.

None of them has been charged or sued in connection with Burnlounge.