Shirley Strawberry, the beloved co-host of Steve Harvey’s radio show, has found herself entangled in a web of fraud and deceit courtesy of her husband, Earnest Williams. The Georgia con artist has been accused of fraudulent marriage and scamming numerous victims out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
In this article, we will delve into the life of Earnest Williams, his early years, career, and the events that led to his downfall.
Who is Shirley Strawberry?
Shirley Strawberry is a renowned radio show co-host, best known for her work alongside Steve Harvey on their popular morning show. She has built a reputation as a trusted and respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Born on March 28, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, Strawberry has had a successful career spanning over two decades.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Shirley Strawberry |
| Gender | Female |
| Birthday | March 28, 1961 |
| Age | 63 years old |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Current Residence | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Profession | Radio show co-host |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Earnest Williams (ex-husband) |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Net Worth | $1 million (estimated) |
| Source of Income | Radio show hosting |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter, Facebook |
Shirley Strawberry Husband
Shirley Strawberry’s husband, Earnest Williams, has been accused of fraud and scamming multiple victims. He allegedly used his marriage to Shirley Strawberry to gain credibility and convince victims to invest in his bogus business ventures.
Williams, born on August 12, 1970, in Atlanta, Georgia, has a history of fraudulent activities dating back to 2009.
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Profile Summary
| Full Name | Earnest Williams |
| Nickname | Nesto |
| Gender | Male |
| Birthday | August 12, 1970 |
| Age | 53 years old |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Current Residence | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Education | Attended Georgia State University |
| Profession | Businessman (former) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Shirley Strawberry (ex-wife) |
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Weight | 170 lbs (77 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Net Worth | $500,000 (estimated) |
| Source of Income | Fraudulent activities (formerly) |
Earnest Williams Early Life and Education
Earnest Williams was born and raised in Georgia. He had a seemingly normal childhood and education, graduating from high school in 1988.
However, little did anyone know that he would later become a mastermind of fraud. Williams attended Georgia State University, where he studied business administration, but did not graduate.
Earnest Williams Career
Earnest Williams posed as a successful businessman, owning a men’s grooming company called “Ernesto Cuts.” He used his charm and charisma to deceive victims into investing in his fraudulent schemes.
Williams’ company, Ernesto Cuts, was founded in 2005 and was reportedly worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Earnest Williams Net Worth
Earnest Williams’ net worth is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands, all acquired through fraudulent means. His net worth is believed to be around $500,000, which he allegedly obtained by scamming victims.
Who is Erica King?
Erica King, also known as Ericka Hughley or Ericka Hughley Rothschild, is Earnest Williams’ co-conspirator. She allegedly helped Williams fraudulently assume the identities of licensed Georgia attorneys. King, born on February 14, 1980, in Atlanta, Georgia, has a criminal record dating back to 2002.
Georgia Con Artist Accused of Fraudulent Marriage to Steve Harvey’s Co-Host
Earnest Williams has been accused of fraudulently marrying Shirley Strawberry to gain celebrity status and credibility. The couple married on January 15, 2015, in a private ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia.
Shirley Strawberry’s Husband 39 Counts of Fraud
Earnest Williams has been indicted on 39 counts of fraud under the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act. The indictment was handed down by a Fulton County Grand Jury on April 23, 2023.
Earnest Williams Allegedly Used Marriage to Scam Victims
Williams allegedly used his marriage to Shirley Strawberry to convince victims to invest in his fraudulent business ventures. He reportedly told victims that his wife was a famous radio host and that her celebrity status would help their businesses grow.
Co-Conspirator Erica King Listed on 19 Indictments
Erica King has been listed as a co-conspirator on 19 of the 39 indictments against Earnest Williams. King allegedly helped Williams fraudulently assume the identities of licensed Georgia attorneys.
Williams and King Arrested in October 2023
Earnest Williams and Erica King were arrested on October 12, 2023, at their Atlanta, Georgia, residence. They were taken into custody by the Roswell Police Department and charged with fraud and racketeering.
Plea Agreement Filed, Hearing Scheduled
A plea agreement has been filed for Earnest Williams, with a hearing scheduled to take place on May 29, 2024. Williams’ public defender, Shawn Hoover, filed the plea agreement on April 26, 2024.
Timelines
- December 1, 2009: Alleged fraudulent activity began
- June 30, 2022: Alleged fraudulent activity ended
- April 23, 2023: Indicted by a Fulton County Grand Jury on 39 counts of fraud
- October 12, 2023: Arrested along with co-conspirator Erica King
- April 17, 2024: Shirley Strawberry filed for divorce from Earnest Williams
- April 26, 2024: Public defender filed a plea agreement for Williams
- May 29, 2024: Hearing scheduled for plea
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Quick Facts
- Earnest Williams is accused of scamming over 25 individuals out of over $750,000
- He allegedly used romantic trickery to carry out fraud-centered schemes
- Shirley Strawberry has filed for divorce from Earnest Williams
- Erica King is Earnest Williams’ co-conspirator
- Williams and King were arrested on October 12, 2023
- Williams has been indicted on 39 counts of fraud under the Georgia RICO Act
Final Thoughts
Earnest Williams’ alleged fraudulent activities have left a trail of destruction in their wake. His marriage to Shirley Strawberry has been left in tatters, and his reputation is in ruins. This case serves as a reminder to always be vigilant and do our due diligence when investing in business ventures.
It also highlights the importance of being cautious when getting involved with someone who may have a history of fraudulent behavior.
FAQs
Who is Earnest Williams?
Earnest Williams is the husband of Shirley Strawberry, accused of fraud and scamming multiple victims.
How much did Earnest Williams allegedly scam from victims?
Earnest Williams allegedly scammed over $750,000 from at least 25 individuals.
Who is Erica King?
Erica King is Earnest Williams’ co-conspirator, accused of helping him fraudulently assume the identities of licensed Georgia attorneys.
How many counts of fraud is Earnest Williams facing?
Earnest Williams is facing 39 counts of fraud under the Georgia RICO Act.
Has Shirley Strawberry filed for divorce from Earnest Williams?
Yes, Shirley Strawberry has filed for divorce from Earnest Williams.
When were Earnest Williams and Erica King arrested?
Earnest Williams and Erica King were arrested on October 12, 2023.
What is the estimated net worth of Earnest Williams?
Earnest Williams’ net worth is estimated to be around $500,000, all acquired through fraudulent means.
How long did Earnest Williams’ alleged fraudulent activity last?
Earnest Williams’ alleged fraudulent activity lasted from December 1, 2009, to June 30, 2022.
