Two foreclosure consultant companies face state lawsuits after taking more than $2,600 from local homeowners and not providing services or refunds. Nevada-based Blue Chip Group Inc. and California-based Certified Legal Processing and Legal Preparation Services were illegally operating in Indiana when each company entered into contracts with homeowners.
“The tough economy paired with already struggling homeowners has meant big business for scammers who aim to prey on their victims’ desperation to stay in their homes,” Zoeller said. “Too good to be true offers backed by phony guaranteed refunds can leave homeowners in worse financial shape including the loss of their homes. Our office continues to investigate and prosecute those who take advantage of Hoosiers and send the message that these types of illegitimate businesses are not welcome in our state.”
Blue Chip Group and its owner William Damiter contracted with two residents—from Lake County and Spencer County—and charged up-front fees for foreclosure consultant services ranging from $495 to $730. Zoeller filed the lawsuit today at the Lake County courthouse.
Certified Processing and Legal Preparation Services and its owner Shaun Lambert are accused of collecting $1,400 in upfront fees from a Porter County resident for similar services.
Both defendants are accused of taking the money and not rendering the promised services or providing refunds. The companies did not obtain certificates of authority from the Secretary of State’s Office to conduct business in Indiana and did not register $25,000 surety bonds with the Attorney General’s Office. These bonds are required before services can be performed, including collecting money upfront.
According to the lawsuits, both businesses violated the Credit Services Organization Act, the Mortgage Rescue Protection Act, the Home Loan Practices Act and Indiana’s Deceptive Consumer Sales Act. Zoeller is seeking injunctions against the companies, restitution for the victims, civil penalties and attorneys' fees.
