Moreover , like a classic Ponzi scheme , the Defendants transferred approximately $ 2.8 million from new clients to existing clients to repay principal or to create the illusion of profitable trading . In addition , to facilitate and otherwise conceal their fraud , the complaint alleges that the Defendants provided clients with false account statements reflecting securities holdings and returns that did not exist . This was an interesting scheme , it lasted almost nine years . And it appears to have returned half the mark 's money .

Question: What happened to the defendants after nine years of their Ponzi scheme ?
Answer: They started another , more lucrative , Ponzi scheme .They were caught , arrested and put on trial .They returned the money and went into hiding .None of the above choices .