everyone (and that includes me) that has a reported dealing with JR comes away with the same take - a solid ethical businessman.
I would imagine that anyone that invested with Madoff, said the same thing about him. Can't imagine anybody giving him money if they thought he was a scumbag.
That is how con men they get rich, 'the art of the sell'. 'Con' stands for confidence; once they gain yours, they go after the wallet.