SEC Charges Eleven in Stock Manipulation Ring

[Toxic Avenger]

Victims of crimes are victims, that's a tautology. Those that commit crimes are criminals - again a tautology.
Some victims may be fools, in this case, many are simply too quick to believe what others tell them. Maybe they're desperate, maybe stupid or maybe just very trusting. Some probably knew better and should not have been taken in. Others may have had their lives ruined by these crimes, or worse.

Some victims may have simply been greedy themselves, however that does not excuse illegal or immoral behavior, nor does gullibility make you less of a victim.