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Goldline, more popularly known for its high-profile endorsements from Fox News' Glenn Beck and former presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, is under investigation by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office and was the subject of Monday night's "Nightline" on ABC.

Authorities in Los Angeles began the investigation after receiving over 100 complaints from consumers who claimed to have lost thousands of dollars after investing with Goldline and Superior Gold Group, a company based out of Santa Monica, California.

Adam Radinsky, Santa Monica City Deputy Attorney, whose office is partnering with investigators in L.A., spoke with "Nightline" about the types of complaints that consumers were making:

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There are two main types of complaints we're seeing. One is that customers say that they were lied to and misled in entering into their purchases of gold coins. And the other group is saying that they received something different from what they had ordered.

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The problem is allegedly with the antique gold coins that Goldline sells as a part of their investing scheme. Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.), who is hoping to conduct a congressional investigation into the gold company, also spoke with "Nightline":

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Once they get people on the phone, they basically steer them into these so-called collectible coins, and that's where the rip-off becomes really profound.

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The companies spokespeople declined to speak with "Nightline" but issued a statement to ABC citing the transparency of their prices and that customers know and understand the risks involved before they invest.

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I’m a rodeo clown,’ he said in an interview, adding with a coy smile, “It takes great skill.” “He added later: “I say on the air all time, ‘if you take what I say as gospel, you’re an idiot.’“

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The average Goldline markup was 90% above the melt value of the coin. The largest markup on any coin was 208% above the melt value. Furthermore, the average Goldline markup is 47% higher than better-priced competitors, with some of the company’s markups going as high as 102% compared to its competitors on one of the coins they offered. By selling gold at twice the melt value, the price of gold would need to double for consumers to break even on their “investment.”

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Goldline employs several conservative pundits to act as shills for its’ precious metal business, including Glenn Beck, Mike Huckabee, Laura Ingraham, and Fred Thompson. By drumming up public fears during financially uncertain times, conservative pundits are able to drive a false narrative. Glenn Beck for example has dedicated entire segments of his program to explaining why the U.S. money supply is destined for hyperinflation with Barack Obama as president. He will often promote the purchase of gold as the only safe investment alternative for consumers who want to safeguard their livelihoods. When the show cuts to commercial break, viewers are treated to an advertisement from Goldline.

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