In 2003, there were only 3 bank failures in the U.S., one of which was First National Bank of Blanchardville (FNBB).

FORBES: 'Just Right To Jail' - Small Bankers Do Go To Prison

On May 1, 2006, former FNBB president Mark Hardyman pleaded guilty to charges associated with falsifying documents and leading actions that caused a financial institution to fail.

FORBES: 'Just Right To Jail' - Small Bankers Do Go To Prison

In 1996, Severson had an opportunity to take over an existing car-towing operation and secured a loan from FNBB where Mark Hardyman was not only the president but was intimately involved with making loans for the bank.

FORBES: 'Just Right To Jail' - Small Bankers Do Go To Prison

Severson knew FNBB and Blanchardville well.

FORBES: 'Just Right To Jail' - Small Bankers Do Go To Prison