Attorney General Bondi’s Office Obtains Restitution for Victims of Loan Modification Scam

TALLAHASSEE, FL – February 15, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that her office has secured restitution of $59,000 for approximately 430 consumers who were harmed by a foreclosure-related rescue service scam. The settlement resolves allegations that Home Owner Protection Economics, Inc., DC Financial Group, and Deleverage America, Inc., all based in Delray Beach, and owners Dennis Fischer and Christopher S. Godfrey illegally charged up-front fees for foreclosure-related rescue services, and failed to perform the services for which they were paid.

“Any homeowner who seeks the help of a foreclosure-related rescue service and is asked for an up-front fee should report that business to our office immediately,” stated Attorney General Pam Bondi. “This practice is prohibited by state law, and my office will continue to crack down on these illegal actions.”

An investigation by the Attorney General’s Office revealed that the defendants purportedly charged as much as $2,000 a person in up-front fees, which is prohibited by 501.1377(3) and (3)(b), F.S. Additionally, services were never rendered. The settlement permanently prevents Home Owner Protection Economics, Inc., DC Financial Group, Deleverage America, Inc. and owners Dennis Fischer and Christopher S. Godfrey from engaging in any loan modification and foreclosure-related rescue services.

Consumers have until March 12, 2012 to return a claim form along with proof of payment to one of the named companies to our office. Consumers may obtain the form by following this link: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/MMFD-8RGRDZ/$file/HOPEClaimForm.pdf

Consumers who suspect fraudulent business practices should file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office by calling 1-866-966-7226 or visiting www.MyFloridaLegal.com.

Media Contact:
Jenn Meale
Phone: (850) 245-0150