"Central Florida Visa Services" owner arrested.

[floridapete]

I am very saddened to have to report that Douglas K. Hall, the owner and principal of "Central Florida Visa Services", which traded from Contempo Plaza on US27, was arrested last Wednesday, the 22nd November, by Polk Co. Sheriffs Dept. on charges of:

1) Grand Theft.
2) Forgery.
3) Uttering a Forged Instrument.
4) Unlawful use of Notary Commission.

He was released same day on a total bail amount of $30,000, to appear at a Polk Court at a later date.

Polk Co. Court Records show a number of cases in his name including one from a British couple who were working with Hall to purchase a business in Naples. The couple are still in the UK and I managed to track them down them yesterday at their E. Sussex home.

In a long, long telecon. they told me of their despair having paid over to Hall a large sum of money for the purchase of the business, while Hall then worked on their L1a visa application to the USCIS. Having had it approved the case was then sent to the US Embassy in London where they were eventually called for an interview. They were told that they would be advised seven days later. Very recently they received a denial notice for their L1 visa app. from the London Embassy. They were dumbfounded !

Meanwhile, Hall seemed 'unable to find' the large sum of dollars which they had paid over to him to hold in Escrow pending closing on the business.

So now they have no business, no visas, and have lost the majority of the money that they raised through a second mortgage on their UK home to buy the US business with !!!!! What a bloody mess !!!!!

I understand that there may be as many as 22 victims like this !

I am personally saddened by this case because I have known Doug for some years since I first met him as the Tourist Tax Auditor for Polk Co. Tax Collectors, late in the 1990's. He was instrumental in working with Webber College, Bartow, to carry out the first CFPMA survey of the economic impact of short term rental homes in the Four Corners area which was a VERY valuable instrument in gaining the respect and consideration of those Counties for the vacation home industry.

Subsequently he moved out of the County offices and into private practice as a tax accountant and 'immigration services advisor' with another partner in Winter Haven. Later he went by himself and at that time approached us to work with our Florida Brits members on their tax matters and property tax appeals as "Central Florida Tax Services". He became an associate member of Florida Brits Club and did some business with our members.

However, we never had any connection with his more recent venture - his 'Visa Services' business - as I didn't know what qualifications or experience he had in that sector and would never advise any of our members to go with any immigration consultant or attorney that we do not know - and I know only two that I could recommend !

My heart goes out to all the victims - and to Dougs family too.

[anniemm]

Pete
I'm sorry to hear this.It's bad enough when we hear about these things happening, worse when its someone you know

You mention two immigration consultants that you could recommend . Can you PM me the details
Thanks

[chris]

I too know Doug Hall, when he first went into partnership with Brian Govoni of Winter Haven back in 1999/2000. Brian started off our E2 application and Doug came into it a short while later. He was our main contact throughout the visa process. We gained a 2 year visa through them. I cannot say the renewal was satisfactory however, and it has to said that our $3500 E2 renewal was handled solely by Brian Govoni. Suffice it to say our renewal was never completed by him, it timed out and the money we paid never translated into what we paid for. No allegations here of deception on the the part of BG, just that we paid for something and didn't get it - simple as that. make of that what you want. I would not appreciate any censorship here, as no-one is making allegations.
Doug suffered a horrific bike accident in 2002 and actually was given last rites. Luckily he pulled through, but he had big problems with memory loss and mental function which took a long time to come back. At this time Govoni parted company with Hall and the rest is history. Like you Peter, Doug was a pleasant person. That does not stop him allegedly commtting crime, in fact it can make it easier. If this action subsequently results in a conviction, then this helps clean up the immigration process for everyone. At that I would commend it

[pegasus]

Annie
IMHO
you will be better off using an immigration specialist attorney. They are the ONLY people that can give legal advice. From the experience we have had it has always proved better to use an attorney (I am NOT one by the way). You can employ a good and reputable attorney at a cost that is no more than a so called consultant, and they are state regulated which is more than the unlicensed consultants.
If Sue OKs it, I can pm you a couple of names who our many successful clients have had no issues with AT ALL.

B rgds

Neil

[anniemm]

Annie
IMHO
you will be better off using an immigration specialist attorney. They are the ONLY people that can give legal advice. From the experience we have had it has always proved better to use an attorney (I am NOT one by the way). You can employ a good and reputable attorney at a cost that is no more than a so called consultant, and they are state regulated which is more than the unlicensed consultants.
If Sue OKs it, I can pm you a couple of names who our many successful clients have had no issues with AT ALL.

B rgds

Neil

Neil
Thanks, sounds good to me. I would appreciate names/numbers

[mark]

OMG

This is terrible and gobsmacked. Is there anything that can be done to help these poor people?

[floridapete]

OMG

This is terrible and gobsmacked. Is there anything that can be done to help these poor people?

I don't really know - because their problem as two faces = the problem of disappeared monies to pay for the business, and the problem of vias denial in order to get to the business and work it.

I have just been speaking with the young guy involved (he has a young family and his wife is about to give birth again any second now). I have put him in touch with ExPats Voice and Susie should watch out for a PM coming to her sometime soon.

I have suggested that she may have a useful contact to get the case re-opened by US Embassy London. His visa case has now been taken over by an attorney over there so he has no need of alternative attorney at this stage.

However, getting the money back seems to be like blood and stones.

[chris]

Taking the young couple you mentioned, its what are there chances of a visa now? Whilst a good VA may be able to present and argue a good case for approval, without the cash, it's a hollow application. Only with the money restored to their rightful owners can it make sense.
My heart goes out to these victims, but I can't see much positives for them at the end of the day. Lets face it, the Embassy is not known for its compassion, let alone understanding. I am sure that the business structure of CFVS will have been set up to limit liability. Dougs wife did work in the DA's office in Bartow, so god knows what this does for her career or credibility. Nor do I know what their personal liabilities for restitution to victims are either. It's once again, a real crock. One can say Caveat Emptor, but there is a human tragedy behind it all. If there are UK citizens in Florida who are affected, surely the UK Consul General in Orlando should be aware of this situation and the repercussions.

[punky]

Cheers for the tip.

Its a real shame for the people, but hopefully it won't all be in vain.

[Susie]

Hello Peter

This begger's belief, and can honestly say that I am not often stummped in what to say, but you have got me here.

I am so sorry for all the victims, decent honest folk just trying to live the dream. If there is anything I can do please let me know.

Can you help in anyway by contacting the press assn in the UK? Seems we must include raising awareness to issues like this too. Until Mr Hall has been proven guilty, I will, have to assume innocent until proven, but its not looking good for Mr Hall, is it?


For those wanting an immigration attorney, please make sure they are a member of www.aila.org they do have a referral section on their site,

Always check out lawyers qualifications are accurate and ask for details of and court cases they have been sucessful with.

Here are a couple of useful sites


www.aila.org American Immigration Lawyers Assn

www.ailf.org American Immigration Laywers Foundation

www.whoswholegal.com To check out attorneys Bio

www.laywers.com To find lawyer

www.cliniclegal.org Not for profit Catholic immigration Network, you do not have to be a catholic for assistance, They have 600 attorneys throught the USA. Mr Charles Wheeler has written a book on CSPA (Ageing out) and we will be contacting him shortly to raise awareness to our site and aims

[floridapete]

No, Susie, I will NOT be contacting the Press over here just yet.

Mr. Hall deserves his day in court and, until then, he must be given the presumption of innocence.

To set the 'tabloid's on this story would just be another nail in the coffin of Florida in the eyes of the UK. travelling public - though it would not affect those who are just tourists at all. We don't need any more of that publicity right now. The US Embassy aspect thing is different. I have already tipped Emigrate America and a broadsheet off about that.

My greatest concern, looking at the numbers involved from public records, is that there must be, right now, a pile of pending visa files on Halls office desk which are in some stage of being processed or applied for. All of those people will already have handed over monies (half now- half later). Do these people have any idea of what is happening over there ? I doubt it.

That is the real predicament !

[Sharon]

This is terrible, I feel so sorry for the victims.

I thought that escrow monies were supposed to be kept in a separate clients account in clients name, so funds were safe?

[Everhopefull]

Ok, I have thought long and hard about replying to this thread.
We are one of 22 or so victims of a crime
I have always believed in the presumption of innocence until proved otherwise. That is until you are involved.
I am carefull of what I should put mainly because of the pending court case.
Fact 1.
I gave someone money to place in escrow and received documents to show that is where it was. The only two people who should be able to touch it are buyer and seller.
Fact 2, that money is no longer there. Work it out.
Oh fact three the person who was given the money phoned me and admitted it had been stolen.
Hopefully I have been able to cover our loss after taking some good legal advice from an attorney. I will not go into details but we have certain assets that 'should' cover our loss. I would rather have the money.
We now own our business and the details of how that has been acheived are not relevant to this.
BTW, do I feel sorry for the family, not a chance. Trust me there is more to this than has been reported here.
Do I feel sorry for the other people involved, yes of course. We are all victims of a liar and a thief.
Should it go to the press. Most definately, we are not stupid people, the others who are involved are not stupid either. We were all taken in by someone who came highly recommended and had documents to 'prove' the money was where it should be. So people need to be aware to be carefull of who they deal with. I also think the escrow rule should change. This was an opportunity waiting to happen.
Perhaps the money should be lodged with the embassy in some sort of account, I don't know.
I will take great pleasure in being in court when called and pointing out the man I gave a substantial amount of money to.
I actually think myself lucky that I have a business and can carry on. That will not apply to most if not all of the other victims. That said the first few days after the dreaded your money has been stolen phone call was the worst days I have ever experienced. Nothing can describe what your feelings are. Theres only one person I want to have worst days than that.
On another note, the amount of money involved is huge when pooled together, according to the investigating officer it is somewhere near $2.8m
Just where exactly did that go?

[Emmalee25]

Everhopefull,
I am so sorry to hear you have been involved in this awful mess, Am glad that all seems to be protected for you though and wish you the best when you get "your day in court"
let us know how it goes.

Em x

[peter gold]

Everhopeful
Well done for being brave and coming forward. I agree entirely with everything you say.
Investors should only put there escrow money into an attorney account . Firstly they are licensed, secondly insured, and thirdly despite rumour most are honest.
I have never and will never handle any clients money, and anyone who does is opening himself up for an allegation of fraud.
There should never be any circumstances where money is handed over to anyone or any organisation who is unlicensed.
I am glad you got your visa, and wish you luck.
With the publicty of this arrest on a number of open forums, it is going to be difficult to avoid U.K media coverage.I am sure they read the Florida papers and forums.
However he is innocent until proved guilty, and may welcome the opportunity to give his explanation !!!!

[anniefromessex]

We used Doug and to be honest with you, even though he drove us to distraction, whenever I phoned him and told him what I thought of him and his practices he was always a gentleman - I never saw him as a threat to us or our money. We always blamed it on his accident and he forgot stuff sometimes - typical gullible Brits really. I would never have said that he was a criminal, in fact, he helped us out big time at one stage and for that we are grateful to him - God only knows what has happened to him in the meantime! I just hope he gets his day in Court and can explain the circumstances surrounding what has happened. I certainly wouldn't want a kangaroo court for him, even though some of what he advised has caused the situation we are now in! You live and learn!

[Susie]

Hi Everhopefull

Boy oh boy,

I am truely so sorry for your monetary loss and the amount of stress this must have been causing your family and yourself.

If there is anything I can do or you would like to have a private chat please send me a pm.

There is nothing wrong in coming forward to say you are a victim and extremley brave of you to do so. I agree that the person is innocent until proven guilty and we should be wary of what we say in wrtiing, but add, if what you write is the truth, whole truth and verified you have nothing to fear. I sincerely hope that many other victims come forward to assist in gaining justice if nothing else

I am so glad you now have a business and hope this goes well for you. I do hope that by joining expats you will be able to form many true and lasting friendships, I have and so grateful for all members suport of this site

Hope you can make our BINGO fund raising night on 16th Dec and get to know us

[floridapete]

Please be VERY careful what anyone says on here. This thread may be being monitored and any information MAY be used in Court.

Before you post anything on here please read - and re-read - it again ! Make any changes BEFORE you click on that 'send' button. For once it is published you don't know how many people may be printing it off.

I am now in touch with several of the victims and also the Polk Co. Sheriff Dept. I am truly amazed at the scale and complexity of this thing.

[Susie]

Thank you Peter

I agree, just be very careful what you say in writing on an open forum and the last thing I need right now is a law suit.


Hearsay is just that, you hear something then say something. So unless you are the victim and can prove so, please think about your posting before you post

[Ron]

eversohopeful

so sorry mate, anything we can do?

[Grumpy]

Peter, can you let any of the other victims know about expats site. If all they get out of joining is moral support I am sure they will feel a bit better

[Bobby]

Don't worry Susie. I have many law suits you can borrow.

Mostly three buttons, and adjustable waist pants. Haven't lost a case yet! There's still loads of time as you know. ;)

[Everhopefull]

Thank you all for your comments, we shall have to see what developes. I will keep you all updated.

I would have come to the bingo night, however my wife arrives at Orlando airport at 9pm that night :) and I will be picking her and the rest of the family up. Have a great time.
Steve

[Dustin]

Hi Everyone

We are the family that Pete is talking of in the first story and I have been following this with interest and always wanting to comment! I have to say thing’s could not be any worse for us at this time and am finding it very hard to talk about. I have been trying to respond and make comments but just break down every time I start to write something, it is still going wrong for us and can’t even try and write about it.

We are the same as others taken in by this man! My wife who is overdue on our second baby keeps repeating the words of Doug Hall “My wife is very keen that we look after family’s” this is what he said to us that made her feel that it would all be ok! Well I have to say this is having a knock on affect as everything now is going so very badly for us and I am sure for others too!

We took out a bridging loan on our house for this venture so am now paying for two mortgages on our house, My wife stopped work last week for our second child and I just got back from Florida to find that I have been suspended from my job as I have had too much time off due to this situation. How very small and degraded I felt telling my family “I HAVE LOST EVRYTHING! INCLUDING MY JOB!” this is a very big story and just seems go on and on and on with bad luck for us. I am going to try and update this but I am finding it hard to even write about it. My wife has been reading all the comments and will also respond but due to baby due and other worries we will do our best.

Sorry for all the other victims I am sure you are or some of you are in the same boat but just can’t see any problems bigger than mine at this time. I would at this point like to thank floridapete for the time he has taken to call us and let our story known to others! Trust me when he first called me it gave me hope that not all people are bad and he was trying to advise me. Due to our situation and everything going on at present I am unable to deal with everything and hope some of you understand what I am saying. “Susie” I have been advised to contact you for assistance in an issues but on reading the comment’s I feel this is pointless! It says “without the money what’s the point in going for the visa” I am going to try and get above this and contact any help we can get but need time to deal with our bigger issues we have.

At this point I find myself again thinking how we are fixed at the moment and feel so hopeless! I feel this is the point I need to sign off as it’s so hard. We as a family will try and tell all over the next few days.

Take care and thanks for your thoughts.

Dustin, Janine, Jemma (12) and lump about to be!

[Grumpy]

This is disgusting, come on lets all put our thinking caps on to see if anything can be done and will pm Susie to discuss at the next comittee meeting

Dustin, you truely have touched me with your story. What qualifications do you have? Maybe one of us might have a job offer for you, who knows. If you prefer send me a pm

[Kriz1]

Dustin...I am lost for words....nothing much can be said to make this better...we can only be here if you or your wife need to talk....I can't say I know how you feel...but the few times we have been near to losing everything while in the USA...our friends and family got us through...I hope you make some trusted friends on this site...I know many will wish to help if only in a small way...

[Susie]

Hello Dustin and :welcome:

What can I say ? I am not the sort to be stumped for words and your case is almost the worst I have heard about, trust me there is another case I have been made aware of but as yet not had chance to post it yet

Please do not give up hope, no one can take that away from you. I too have have the worst year of my life and is not getting any better yet. I know exactly what it is like to suffer, my husband and I set this site up in March 06, less than 8 weeks later my husband passed away.

There is no compassion in the USA and why we are petitioning for a compassionate visa which could cover your type of senario. This will not happen overnight but determind to suceed.

I will be speaking to my attorney about all the victims , my congressman and expatsvoice committee


Would you be willing to pm your story to me (in points for ease) and I can forward to congressman and others?


In the meantime, have you thought of other ways to move to the USA?

[Dustin]

Wow what a quick response! Thanks guys hope to see your PM and will respond. Just so can’t sleep tonight thinking about it all again! I will update again soon, O and both my wife and I have loads to offer in qualifications I am a golf course superintendent and Janine is a qualified Vet nurse. I am also a Scuba Instructor (this was the business I was buying www.naplesdive.com and the UK business is www.planetdivers.co.uk we were only trying to progress and add to the USA economy) what a big mess!

Anyway thanks again guys.

Dustin

[mandy]

Dustin you sound like a really lovely guy who is going through a horrendous experience.

I wish you and your family all the luck in the world and hope you can turn this situation around.

Mandy

[punky]

Dustin, firstly I would like to :welcome: you to the forum.

I am really sorry to hear of your story. I hope getting it down finally helps... A trouble shareed, etc.

Hopefully, we can put our heads together and come up with something...

[haytonmac]

Hi Dustin ,like the others I can only offer you support ,my hubbie too is a dive staff instructor but that is not the business we are in here.our thoughts are with you and your family and the safe arrival of your new lump!? take care

[Emmalee25]

Hi Dustin,
so sorry to hear of your plight! hopefully between us all we can try and make sure this doesnt happen again in the future.

take care and keep posting
Em x

[lorraine]

Hi Dustin Janine Jemma and baby to be, how sad, I am so sorry to hear of all your bad news. I do know exactly what you are going through as just over 12 years ago my husband and I lost everything. And I mean everything monetry. House, business the lot. But you know we still had our son and eachother. We turned it all around and it was hard it took us years and we are now here with a business in Uk and one here. It still not easy by any means. But through all this just remeber the most important thing is family loved ones and health. I know right now it all seems like its the end, but really the end, would be not having eachother. I wish you all the luck in the world. Kindest regards Lorraine

[reecey]

Hi Dustin and family

so sorry to hear your awful situation, if we can all give a little time and effort we hopefully can start making plans to stop this happening in the future,

take care

julie

[Susie]

Hi Dustin

Sorry forgot to congratulate you on the little bundle of fun. When is baby due?

I am going to be a nana for the first time in March or April and know the baby is a boy

[reecey]

Think Susie
you may get a little Reecey !!!! LOL !!!!

[Dustin]

Janine was due two days ago so still waiting :) we are told a girl will keep you posted.

Dustin

[Bobby]

Good Luck Dustin & Janine,

More important than anything at all in your life is what goes on in the close proximity of your family life.
I'd like to wish you all the best, at this wonderful time. Even if you think that things are going against you, pause for a moment and think about a newborn baby and it should put things into perspective. Family and well being are more important than status in any country.
Forget your monetary losses. Learn from them and move on. EVERYONE has lost money at some stage, or been on the bones of their ass. It's what you do from THAT point that matters.
Be strong for your family. Guide them forward, and you'll be a happy man. Surround yourself with like minded people, and ignore those who aren't in the position where you would like to go to.
My Dad always said that to me. Listen to people who are already in the position that you want to get to, or at the very least people that you trust are on the way there.

Good luck,

Bobby

[Susie]

I agree Bobby, family is the mosty important asset we all have, money means nothing when you no longer have your nearest and dearest


I am going to quote your dad saying from now on, like it so much


Listen to people who are already in the position that you want to get to, or at the very least people that you trust are on the way there.:) :)

[Susie]

Think Susie
you may get a little Reecey !!!! LOL !!!!


Hi

Little Reecey is a cutie,

Trust me he is a litttle :angel: compared to one of my boys, will not name the one, he already knows who he is ! :) :)

[Ellie]

I have just found your forum and was very disturbed to find this article. We used Doug Hall for our visa but I guess luckily for us we were approved over a year ago. Does anyone think this could have some repercussions for us? I feel very fortunate but at the same time heartsick for those people that have posted about how they have been affected. I send you only best wishes and reiterate everything said before about relying on friends and family to bring you through.

[Emmalee25]

Hi Ellie and welcome!
If you already have your visa through then im sure there should be no repercussions to yourself, I would just check over all the business documents with this news in mind and make sure there are no points that stand out in Hindsight!!!

Why dont you go to our 'introduce yourself' section and let us know a little about you? :welcome:
Em x

[peter gold]

Ellie
I don't want to be an alarmist but there may be a problem when you come to renew.
If the application and renewal is (Ii am sure that is the case) genuine you should be ok.

[Emmalee25]

Hi peter,
Actually i was a bit concerned about renewal too, but didnt want to scare the pants off Ellie!!!
Does anyone actually know if she should do something to maybe counteract a dodgy renewal process??
Em x

[floridapete]

I have just found your forum and was very disturbed to find this article. We used Doug Hall for our visa but I guess luckily for us we were approved over a year ago. Does anyone think this could have some repercussions for us? I feel very fortunate but at the same time heartsick for those people that have posted about how they have been affected. I send you only best wishes and reiterate everything said before about relying on friends and family to bring you through.


Hello Ellie, check to make sure that you actually have a 'VISA' - rather than just an 'adjustment of status to E2'.

I say this because, from what I have found so far, Doug. Hall may have been in the habit of going down the path of 'adjustment of status' - or obtaining E2 (even L1) 'status' for people. That still means that the people concerned do not actually have a VISA yet !

The VISA can only be granted by the US Embassy in London. Did you attend an interview at the US Embassy in London to get your visa approved and do you have it now stamped into your passports ? If so, then you will have no problem.

If not, then all you will currently have is an 'adjusted status' which can only be ratified (approved) by application to, and an interview at, the US Embassy in London. Meanwhile that adjustment of status to E2 is only valid whilst you are within the USA - once you leave it is null and void.

Let us know which you have when you have checked.

Pete.

[peter gold]

best advice is to get an attorney to prepare the renewal and advise afresh on the merits
Fact is got a visa MUST be a solid basis for a renewal. It will just be scrutuinised in greater depth on renewal so will have to be 100% right

[Bobby]

The only way to know for sure that you aren't being scammed, or being given less than scrupulous advice, is to "do it yourself". That's probably why I have filed everything myself. I don't trust too many people, especially over something so important. I've heard too many stories of petitions gone wrong and not because of the content or the merits of an individuals case, but more incidents where the lawyer missed crucial items from the petitions, (like other family members!! etc...)
Read the USCIS site and it states clearly what you need to do to file petitions and renewals. Read as much as you can on sites like this one.
It's not THAT difficult.

Good Luck,

Bobby

[Susie]

I have just found your forum and was very disturbed to find this article. We used Doug Hall for our visa but I guess luckily for us we were approved over a year ago. Does anyone think this could have some repercussions for us? I feel very fortunate but at the same time heartsick for those people that have posted about how they have been affected. I send you only best wishes and reiterate everything said before about relying on friends and family to bring you through.


Hello Ellie and :welcome:

Hope you enjoy surfing our site and support us by posting and pasing details of our site to anyone you think could benefit.

If you are in Florida we are havin a committee meeting Mon 11th Dec in the Davenport area

We hold open meetings, this is because, so many new members are joining all the time and is nice to have some new blood to add to discussions

Just wiz me a pm if you would like the venue details

Do you have visa stamped in your passport or just a notice of action?

Be very careful and work hard to achieve your business plan as renewals are tough

[nomorefla]

I am new to this site although I do visit another similar forum.

I too have had money stolen from the CFVG and Mr. Hall.

I don't think words can express what my feelings are for him after the anguish and torture he has put us through. I too have small children and the impact it has had on us as a family is immense. Lesser families would have been broken.

At some stage the truth will come out and by what i have read some people already seem to know more than most.

If the guy had any remorse or dignity he would reveal what he has done with the money and reimburse those affected.

[v2002]

QUOTE=Susie]I agree, just be very careful what you say in writing on an open forum and the last thing I need right now is a law suit, please think about your posting before you post [/QUOTE] Please correct me if I am wrong?
:p I strongly believe this forum is to help on immigration issues, our main problems with USCIS and its handling of our cases and sometimes to be helpful on small issues in our daily lives, People make decisions that cost them tremendously but when they use this forum with good intention so as to make others aware of a existing problem those who read get mad to see the friends go through that pain and rant out in the spur of a moment forgetting there are two sides of the story or may be there may be a third reason completely different and unrelated to the friends case that ended up in current situation. I think one should be careful in making comments on a situation that’s not remotely known to them. It’s an immigration forum not a legal battleground.
One simple observation I have made in this country and you will know what I mean.
“You ask something to an American and he/she answers just one sentence
“I DON’T KNOW “ It can be a simple Q for direction. If you follow that.
Bottom line lets just refrain from making our comments except showing our empathy with those who got into mess , and focus on HELPING part.
:D

[Susie]

I am new to this site although I do visit another similar forum.

I too have had money stolen from the CFVG and Mr. Hall.

I don't think words can express what my feelings are for him after the anguish and torture he has put us through. I too have small children and the impact it has had on us as a family is immense. Lesser families would have been broken.

At some stage the truth will come out and by what i have read some people already seem to know more than most.

If the guy had any remorse or dignity he would reveal what he has done with the money and reimburse those affected.

Hello and :welcome:

I am so glad you found the courage to join our site, believe me I truely feel your pain and suffering and have my full support


There was a committee meeting last night and the topic of cases like yours came up and we have a few ideas that cannot be revealed just yet! But please bear with us and hoepfully will be able to report back at a later date

Are you in the USA or still in the UK?

[Sharon]

I have just found your forum and was very disturbed to find this article. We used Doug Hall for our visa but I guess luckily for us we were approved over a year ago. Does anyone think this could have some repercussions for us? I feel very fortunate but at the same time heartsick for those people that have posted about how they have been affected. I send you only best wishes and reiterate everything said before about relying on friends and family to bring you through.


Hello and welcome

Seems you have had a narrow escape but do not feel this would have anything to do with your renewal. Just make sure you use a top notch attorney and meet all your business plan as much as possible

[Sharon]

I am new to this site although I do visit another similar forum.

I too have had money stolen from the CFVG and Mr. Hall.

I don't think words can express what my feelings are for him after the anguish and torture he has put us through. I too have small children and the impact it has had on us as a family is immense. Lesser families would have been broken.

At some stage the truth will come out and by what i have read some people already seem to know more than most.

If the guy had any remorse or dignity he would reveal what he has done with the money and reimburse those affected.


Hello and :welcome: I am so sorry to hear your news and hope the truth and law will prevail. It is so brave of you to come forward and admit you were taken in yet lost so much. This forum is great and sure that if more victims come forward then maybe something can be done, as they say force in numbers

[anniefromessex]

Hi and welcome to the site. I am so sorry to hear of your news and hope that in the foreseeable future things will turn out right for you. It must be devastating, especially coming up to Christmas when all should be right in your world. We used Doug and to be honest with you even though he drove us to distraction at times (he even told my husband he was scared of me cos I threatened him a few times) we would never have thought this of him - will not say more as it is an open forum and is not fair to anybody but, please believe me when I say our thoughts and prayers are with you and I am sure that everybody on this site feels for you at this moment and wishes you all the luck in the world to get your dream back!!

My only advice at this moment in time is to give your kids the best Christmas you can, take a deep breath and try to sort everything out in the New Year, totally useless advice I know, but the only thing I can think of at the moment with the holidays coming up and people slowing down for Christmas.

Please keep us advised and I know Susie will try to help in any way she can, as per Committee Meeting last night.

Take care and keep your chin up.

LOL
Anniexx

[janine]

Hello, I’m Janine, Dustin's wife.

I'm still pregnant! (Due 8th Dec) I don't think this baby wants to appear; perhaps it's for the best due to what’s happening in our lives at the moment!

I would just like to say thank you to everyone for their comments, advice and words of encouragement. It is heartbreaking to see what my husband is going through at the moment, I know he is doing his best to try and protect me and our family, but he is at breaking point, as things just go from bad to worse! We thought we were going about our Florida dream the right way. We attended an immigration show, Emigrate 2005 in Sandown. We researched Doug Hall of The Central Florida Visa Group and the law firm that he was sharing a stand with, as did our friends in Florida.

Do the people who hold these shows actually check the qualifications etc of the companies attending the show or can anyone set up a stand saying that they are a visa company or law firm? Doug seemed to be a caring family man and this is why we were attracted in using him, he promised help with finding accommodation and schooling etc for as long as we needed him. We trusted him, how silly do we feel now! We were applying for an L1 visa and got refused twice? We then sent a new application after our failed applications we used the law firm that he was linked to, which was when we discovered all was not well. We got approved in the USA but after our London interview we finally got told over 3 month later we were now refused?) Was this because I was pregnant? As we were told we would have an answer in seven days! How can we be accepted by the USA and the London Embassy then saying DENIED? What a big mess! (Peter not knowing what Paul is doing it seems?)

To cut a long story short we borrowed money against our house and the money was put into an Escrow account for safety!! (This is what we were told and documents to support) we have contracts and signed paper work for this. The money was to be released on visa application or refusal. The only link was a rented office! After numerous attempts in having our money transferred to the law firm Doug Hall then admitted that the money had been stolen and that he was doing his best to get the money back, after lots of lies and broken promises he was summonsed to our court hearing and a judgment was given in our favor.

The final straw for Dustin was when he was told by our Lawyer that the Sheriffs office wanted $2500 for each vehicle to be collected refundable. This broke him and he told me that he was so glad that it took him so long to find Doug Hall’s house as he was at his very lowest point. Our good friends in the USA were able to comfort him and help in a great way. All the funds we had saved in the USA to help us when we got there has and is going on the Lawyer and soon will not even be able to fund our legal attempts to get our money back.

We are now just waiting but it seems hopeless as more victims keep coming forward. My husband has now been suspended from his UK job for time taken off over the time it has taken trying to achieve this dream and goal! All his time was taken for attending meetings, court case and I am now on maternity leave and pay?

Even if I go back to work full time as soon as the baby is born and my husband looks after the baby my wages will not cover the mortgage repayments! I know money isn't everything and we have the love and support of each other but that doesn't pay the bills!! We now with an extra one on the way with Christmas fast approaching it's not looking good!

Let's just hope something can be done and that no other family has to ever go through what we are!

Thanks again for all your thoughts! I keep telling Dustin we are not done with this yet as we want our dream so much it’s got to happen at some point!

Janine + Bump

[anniefromessex]

Hi Janine and bump,

Just a short line to say our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Don't give up, keep fighting and good will prevail, or so we hope!! At this moment in time give all your love to your little one, when he/she arrives and with all of us working on it perhaps something good will come out of this mess.

Take care, please keep us updated on everything - being a Nan my thoughts are with the baby at the moment, when you are finally here first dibs on a cuddle as I miss mine sooo much!!!

LOL
Anniexxx

[v2002]

The only way to know for sure that you aren't being scammed, or being given less than scrupulous advice, is to "do it yourself". That's probably why I have filed everything myself. I don't trust too many people, especially over something so important. I've heard too many stories of petitions gone wrong and not because of the content or the merits of an individuals case, but more incidents where the lawyer missed crucial items from the petitions, (like other family members!! etc...)
Read the USCIS site and it states clearly what you need to do to file petitions and renewals. Read as much as you can on sites like this one.
It's not THAT difficult.
Good Luck,
BobbyBRAVO " WELLSAID"
:notworthy: WORTH EVERY PENNY atleast research the things and learn yourself if you are using someone else to file .....By knowing things yourself you can cross check everything thats being filed & protect yourself sooner IF YOU SMELL somethings FISSHY .

[reecey]

Hi nomorefla and Janine welcome to site
nothing we can say will make it better but we all feel for you and will do anything we can to help!!!! just ask !!

regards
Julie

[v2002]

I would like to add here one more thing .....
"There has to be a way out" in situations like this spl. something that involves money and LIVES..........Some members who know the reality of the case should research . unfortunately I know nothing about the situation if SUE will let me know by PM I will be glad to research on it to see if their is any way to fix... atleast the stay part if not money part .
In that case the families can focus on MOVING ON WITH LIFE .. and fight the lawsuit.

[Emmalee25]

Hi janine and bump!
Welcome to our site, at this time i just want to say, concentrate on you and your baby, your family is obviously a strong one, In years to come you want to remember those last few days of pregnancy (y'know, the achey legs and back, constant trips to the loo :) ) and not this whole nightmare!
best wishes to you for the birth and for the future.....we should set up a nanny circle :p I am desperate for a new baby (mine is 3) LOL

anyway we are all here for you, tell dustin to come back on, we hope to support you thru the coming months.

Em x

[nomorefla]

Are you in the USA or still in the UK?

I am in the UK and this is where we have now decided to stay, The US is just too unpredictable now with the regime in place at the embassy. They obviously have made a decision to limit the number of Brits so I have taken the hint.

I could never trust anybody again based in Florida. We have been xxxx to and xxxx by business broker and seller and to top it all off had the money xxxxx by our supposed 'Escow Agent/VC/accountant'.

This post has been edited by Sue, due to allegations

[Emmalee25]

Hi Nomorefla,
im so sorry you feel that way, I can honestly say that 'They' are not all conmen, we used and found a fantastic VA, he was honest and worked with us (and still is working with us). there are many many mine fields out there, but you can get thru eventually if you have the support! maybe when the court case is finalised and you start to bounce back again, you may find trhe strength to try again?

Em x

[Susie]

I am in the UK and this is where we have now decided to stay, The US is just too unpredictable now with the regime in place at the embassy. They obviously have made a decision to limit the number of Brits so I have taken the hint.

I could never trust anybody again based in Florida. We have been xxxx and xxxx by business broker and seller and to top it all off had the money xxxx by our supposed 'Escow Agent/VC/accountant'.

Edit Sue admin


Hi

I am also so sorry you feel this way but can understand your feelings

Just a polite word of warning to protect you, please be careful what you say on an open forum.You have made serious allegations which unless proven in a court of law could come back to bite you so for that reason I will edit your post

We are being watched, seriously and I have been contacted by people in high places !! I cannot say more at this stage but watch this space. The committee is working in the background on so much, again, we cannot reveal at this stage

I do hope you understand

[Kriz1]

Hi janine and bump!
Welcome to our site, at this time i just want to say, concentrate on you and your baby, your family is obviously a strong one, In years to come you want to remember those last few days of pregnancy (y'know, the achey legs and back, constant trips to the loo :) ) and not this whole nightmare!
best wishes to you for the birth and for the future.....we should set up a nanny circle :p I am desperate for a new baby (mine is 3) LOL

anyway we are all here for you, tell dustin to come back on, we hope to support you thru the coming months.

Em x

Wish I had somewhere to take William when I have him...which is all the time.........LOL!

It must be so lonely being a young mum in the USA if what I've seen is anything to go by....it can't be that good for the kids...William is growing leaps and bonds after going to day care a few hours a week....I had a group of four friends in the UK...10 kids and we spent everyday doing stuff together...my kids had a great childhood...one I don't think they would of had in the USA....

[Ellie]

Thanks for all your welcomes and we have secured the services of a very good attorney for our renewal. he has all the right credentials and accreditations although I know it wont be an easy process.
What a great thing for you to have started for victims and I hope it helps all those who need it.

[Dustin]

Hello to all,

I thought some people may be interested to hear that BBC radio 5 will be running a story on this situation this Sunday 15th January and it will be on air at 11am UK time.

I have given an interview to the story as have other victims and now hope that the word gets out to hopefully stopping this from happening to another family before they commit everything to there dream’s and lose everything.

I will keep in touch.

Regards,

Dustin and tribe 

[STEVE T]

although i dont post my thoughts very much i always read the new posts and messages and enjoy the site very much,this message is for peter ,who does a great job with all his info,these scams against the investors not all are brits, are friends have given this guy over $300,000 and they hav,nt told anyone for over 6 months they are german,with the same ,i am so ashamed i cannot tell anyone attitude most brits have ,i am sorry Peter but you need to go to the press in the uk ,you cannot take any high ground on this one.And its a lot more than 22 families you can bet,go on peter tell the facts as it is , this side of the pond is full of big sharks , and a lot with union jack tattoos, this is going to cripple the e2 visa when the other companys under investigation for massive fraud comes to light, hold on to your hats e2ers i think where in for a bumpy ride

[Susie]

Hello to all,

I thought some people may be interested to hear that BBC radio 5 will be running a story on this situation this Sunday 15th January and it will be on air at 11am UK time.

I have given an interview to the story as have other victims and now hope that the word gets out to hopefully stopping this from happening to another family before they commit everything to there dream’s and lose everything.

I will keep in touch.

Regards,

Dustin and tribe 

Hey Dustin,

Only just realised you can now post, sorry for the tech problems and pleased you can now post.

Well done you for speaking with the BBC, did you give expatsvoice a plug?

Hope we can get a transcript or something to post here.

Can you help FL Peter??

[Susie]

although i dont post my thoughts very much i always read the new posts and messages and enjoy the site very much,this message is for peter ,who does a great job with all his info,these scams against the investors not all are brits, are friends have given this guy over $300,000 and they hav,nt told anyone for over 6 months they are german,with the same ,i am so ashamed i cannot tell anyone attitude most brits have ,i am sorry Peter but you need to go to the press in the uk ,you cannot take any high ground on this one.And its a lot more than 22 families you can bet,go on peter tell the facts as it is , this side of the pond is full of big sharks , and a lot with union jack tattoos, this is going to cripple the e2 visa when the other companys under investigation for massive fraud comes to light, hold on to your hats e2ers i think where in for a bumpy ride

Hello Steve,

Thank you for being sooooooo brave as to share your thoughts with us. By doing this others will hopefully, come forward and in turn you can all pull together to start to rebuild your lives.

My previous office manger in London always used to say # I just love it when things go wrong # and when I asked him to explain he said # Well it gives me the chance to put things right and people admire and respect you for your efforts

You have nothing to be ashamed of, my guess is there for the grace of god, we could all be burn't badly at some point in our lives. Con men are so good at their job ! and why so many get taken in

[Dustin]

O Yes I Did! But Who Knows What Will Be On?

Dustin

[nomorefla]

I too have given my story to the BBC for this report. This whole thing is now a federal investigation.

The more exposure this fraud gets the better for all concerned.

The story once aired can be listened to again on the internet by accessing the BBC radio 5 live website.

[floridapete]

I too have given my story to the BBC for this report. This whole thing is now a federal investigation.

The more exposure this fraud gets the better for all concerned.

The story once aired can be listened to again on the internet by accessing the BBC radio 5 live website.

The programme will be called "Five Live Report" and will run from 11am to around 11.35/11.45am (GMT) depending on listener feed-back.

I understand that it will major on the two current cases of the abuse of emigrating Brits to Florida - Royal Developments (Mike Leggett) and the Central Florida Visa Services (Doug Hall).

There will be recorded interviews with various victims. A representative from the US Embassy in London has been invited to take part 'live' and has accepted.

From what the lady I spoke to today tells me they have a LOT of stuff to bring out !

[Everhopefull]

The BBC schedule shows the Florida scam report at 7.30pm. Is that a repeat of the 11am program you are referring to, the show runs between 10am and 1pm UK time?
Steve

[floridapete]

The BBC schedule shows the Florida scam report at 7.30pm. Is that a repeat of the 11am program you are referring to, the show runs between 10am and 1pm UK time?
Steve

The show runs, as I have indicated above, starting from 11am and finishing at 11.35/11.45am GMT depending on phone-in response.

The programme is "Five Live report". If that is subtitled "Florida scam report" and being repeated Sunday evening at 7.30pm then you have more information than I had when I wrote the post above. (having checked the BBC5 website I see that is will be repeated at 7.30pm GMT).

Here is the summary from the website.

"SUN 14th JANUARY :
Scams in the Sunshine State.

Reporter Matthew Chapman investigates how dozens of Britons have been left homeless and penniless by a series of scams in Florida. One victim tells how his dream of emigrating to the US turned to a nightmare when he lost £100,000 and his family was deported. Britons are flocking to Florida to take advantage of the favourable exchange rate and are spending millions of pounds on property. One hundred thousand ex-pats now live in the Sunshine State.

The Five Live Report reveals how Britons are increasingly falling prey to rogue businessmen there."

***********************
P.S. I just spoke with the researcher for this programme. The 'repeat' at 7.30pm is a different version of the story - not a repeat of the 11am programme. The evening programme is more of a pre-recorded documentary. There will be more interviews with 'victims' but none of the live discussion as per the morning programme.

So best try to pick up the morning transmission from the internet - maybe the following day - if you want to full story and can't manage to get out of bed to hear it so early on a Sunday morning.

[chris]

For waht its worth I just hope that these programmes highlight to people that the sharks to be wary of are not just the American variety, but their own countrymen. For many Brits, they tend to place more trust in their own kind because of the unknown factor of the american and end up being screwed. Personally, I've come across more Brits I wouldn't trust here than Americans.
Caveat Emptor rules OK?

[floridapete]

For waht its worth I just hope that these programmes highlight to people that the sharks to be wary of are not just the American variety, but their own countrymen. For many Brits, they tend to place more trust in their own kind because of the unknown factor of the american and end up being screwed. Personally, I've come across more Brits I wouldn't trust here than Americans.
Caveat Emptor rules OK?

That factor has not gone unnoticed by the researchers and I am sure that it will be brought up.

But, by the way, it's not just the Brits who rip off Brits. I hear that the Germans rip off their own down in the Cape Coral area and the Puerto Ricans certainly rip off their own in Osceola Co. !

It's all based on trusting your own - when you would be unwise to do so without checking first.

[Susie]

Thank you Peter for all your efforts

cannot wait for this to break live, and will be very interested to see what the Embassy official has to say

I have a couple of Radio station numbers that my neigbor brought over today and will be telling them all about this

[floridapete]

Also see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6255529.stm

[Susie]

Thanks Peter


Britons' dreams of US visas shattered
By Matthew Chapman
BBC Radio Five Live Report



The American Dream has turned sour for many Britons
US police and the State Department are investigating several companies suspected of involvement in a series of visa scams in which British families have lost millions of pounds.

A BBC investigation has found that more than 50 families have in some cases been left homeless after they paid out an estimated $7m to companies that claimed to be able to help them obtain visas to emigrate to America.

Frustration at the lack of help from the American authorities has boiled over, with one Briton being arrested for allegedly attacking an ex-employee of one of the companies with a baseball bat.

The first case involves a company called Royal Development, which advertised in a British magazine claiming it could help would-be emigrants to America gain a much sought after E2 business visa.

Three thousand Britons gain this visa every year and it can help them live and work in the US until they retire.

A dream come true

Among those who answered the advertisement were Paul and Shireen Butterfield who sold their house to pay more than $150,000 to Royal Development.


One man was arrested after a fight over the deals

The money was meant to go towards creating a house-building business near Orlando in Florida.

The plan was that Royal Development would then submit an application for a business visa to the American embassy in London, on the basis that the Butterfields had a viable company in US, which is one of the requirements of the E2 visa.

"It was a dream come true for us," says Mr Butterfield.

"Everything that we needed to make a success in America and live the American dream.

"Unfortunately that wasn't the case."

High tension

Royal Development began operating in 2003 and since then has signed up an estimated 26 families who paid between them $2.6m.


Michael Leggett declined an interview request

It has yet to secure a single visa and has built fewer than ten homes in Florida, many of which are unsellable because of legal wrangles with contractors.

It has emerged that the company's founder, Michael Leggett, left the UK in 2003 after a double glazing company he ran in Norwich went into liquidation, owing nearly half a million pounds to customers and suppliers.

Because they have failed to get their visa the Butterfields were eventually deported from America and are now living in the spare room of a relative's house in Cannock in Staffordshire.

Tensions have risen to such a level that when Mr Butterfield recently returned to Florida to try and wind up his affairs he was injured after he got into a fight with an ex-employee of Royal Development.

Mr Butterfields was arrested and released on bail.

The State Department has said it is investigating Royal Development over allegations of visa fraud including claims that the company forged some of the paperwork to boost their chances.

Michael Leggett pulled out of a BBC interview, but in a brief phone call denied he had ever promised to obtain visas for his clients, insisting "no one in their right mind would promise anyone anything like that".

Documents obtained by the Five Live Report show some of the company's money was spent on cigars, lingerie and a visit to a London lap dancing bar.

Caution urged

In a second case involving a company called Central Florida Visa Group, an estimated 25 Britons paid over $4.5m dollars to help them obtain E2 visas.

I've lost everything. I had to remortgage my house to do this and now I might be sacked by my company because I've taken so much time off work to try and sort this out

Golf course manager Dustin Houghton

All received phone calls and emails from the company's founder, Florida businessman Doug Hall, claiming their money had been stolen by an employee.

Police sources say their investigation is focusing on Mr Hall as having stolen the money.

Golf course manager Dustin Houghton from Bournemouth says he lost $215,000 to Mr Hall.

"I've lost everything. I had to remortgage my house to do this and now I might be sacked by my company because I've taken so much time off work to try and sort this out."

Mr Hall has denied that he stole the money.

A spokesman for the US Embassy in London urges Britons to be cautious about who they hired to find a business in America and obtain an E2 visa.

"Don't get the same person who is sorting out your visa to find a business for you," says consul general John Caulfield.

"If they want you to invest in their business they are not going to be realistic about the realities involved in obtaining an E2 visa."

The Five Live Report: Scams in the Sunshine State is broadcast on Sunday 14 January at 11am on the Julian Worricker Show on BBC Radio Five.

[Susie]

Hot news


Susie is meeting with producer of AM-580 WDBO Tuesday at 10am !!!

Watch this space, more in pipeline !!!!!!!!

[DEE F]

Just wondering here ,how did this guy get back in to Us after being deported?????????????????


Dee xx

[janine]

A report for this has just been featured in The Sun newspaper (UK).
You can read the written report under the thread "Exposure for Expat's voice in The Sun newspaper.

[Dustin]

http://forum.expatsvoice.org/showthread.php?t=1297

the BBC NEWS

Dustin

[Dustin]

Now that my job is gone I have a little spare time on my hands! I am making every effort to make your meeting next week and try to meet with my lawyer etc. Any news on Doug Hall would be very helpful; I hope I can make it over to meet you guys in person and see what I can do to try and repay the support you guys give .

Regards

Dustin, Janine, Jemma & Kayley 12lbs and growing! 

[Susie]

Hi Dustin

Hang on in there, my offer stands per my call, sorry I missed you in the chat room but just call me if and when you need me

How did you get on with the producer? did they tell you anything different? just call or pm me

[Dustin]

Hi Sue

Yes i have spoken to them and they are going to callme back today somtime. i will keep you informed.

Regards

Dustin

[Ellie]

the american justice system at work...have just seen Doug Hall out shopping

[Dustin]

Hi Ellie

This just makes my blood boil. I can’t believe he is still walking the streets shopping when he leaves so many peoples lives in tatters.

Thanks for the Update and hope he gets his justice for what he has done to us and others.

Regards

Dustin

[bam]

i would be grateful for advice.

I am in the midst of applying for a E2 visa.

The case is at present being compiled by my Visa Consultant.

The business we have "bought" and the necessary due dilligance has been done by lawyers in the US.

I have been told that the money needs to be shortly placed in an Escrow account with my VC.

Can anyone please explain the logistics of this.

[peter gold]

I hope that the contract is subject to an E2 visa and then if so all the purchase money is placed with an attorney in escrow (deposit) subject to the sale going through. If it does not all is returned.
Please assure us the money is beinhg held by an attorney

[lorraine]

Hi Bam I just checked your profile and it says you MD of company can I ask why you didnt go the L1 route instead. kind regards Lorraine and good luck

[Dustin]

Hi

We went the L1 way and still had lots of problems and hoops to jump through. Now other issues out way the VISA application as the time taken for the application (Missing money issues to deal with of course).

Hope it works for others.

Regards

Dustin
:eek:

[bam]

Have recently sold my business - so cant go the L1 route.

Money will be placed in our Consultants business Escrow account and is subject to the E2 being hopefully issued

[Susie]

i would be grateful for advice.

I am in the midst of applying for a E2 visa.

The case is at present being compiled by my Visa Consultant.

The business we have "bought" and the necessary due dilligance has been done by lawyers in the US.

I have been told that the money needs to be shortly placed in an Escrow account with my VC.

Can anyone please explain the logistics of this.

Hi Bam and :welcome:

Please do not place any funds with a visa consultant for your own benefit

It is advisable to place the funds in an Immigration ATTORNIES ecrow account

Escrow funds are only protected is if the money is in an immigration attorney's ecrow account and the immigration attorney is a member of the Bar assn

[PolkWatcher]

Ex-Polk Employee Accused Of Fraud
British investor sues Douglas Hall, saying he misappropriated escrow funds.


http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070223/NEWS/702230361/1004

[DEE F]

So where the hell has he dissappeaed to then, and why cant the find him???????????????????????????

Dee xx

[Susie]

Hi to PolkWatcher and welcom

Thank you so much for joining and sharing this news, please watch this space, more to follow




here is the article




Published Friday, February 23, 2007

Ex-Polk Employee Accused Of Fraud
British investor sues Douglas Hall, saying he misappropriated escrow funds.

By Mike Grogan
The Reporter


DAVENPORT - A former employee of the Polk County Tax Collector's Office is facing a lawsuit and possible criminal charges in connection with a British investor who was bilked out of more than $160,000.

Douglas K. Hall and his company, Central Florida Visa Group, Inc., are being investigated by Polk County Sheriff's detectives and are the subject of a lawsuit filed Feb. 1 in circuit court in Bartow.

"There are allegations of criminal action," said Ronald M. Hand, the Kissimmee lawyer who filed the lawsuit on behalf of Stephen Smith of Great Britain. "Our allegations are (Hall) took money that was supposed to be in escrow and used it for his own purposes."

Named as defendants in the lawsuit are Hall and his company, along with a man and a woman who are accused of playing a role in the purported fraud, but have yet to be identified.

Central Florida Visa Group lists offices in Davenport and Bartow on its letterhead. The telephone in the Bartow office has been disconnected and the number in Davenport rings to an answering machine. It is one of several U.S. companies that claim to be immigration consultants with the ability to help foreign investors work through the red tape of getting a visa that will allow them live and do business in the United States.

"They are not regulated," Hand said of such businesses which advertise in British magazines. He noted that investors like Smith are taking a risk with their money when they don't go to well established firms or go through a lawyer when making large investments far away from home.

Smith's complaint against Hall may just be the tip of the iceberg. News reports in Great Britain claim that more than 50 families in the U.K. have been cheated out of an estimated $7 million.

"Frustration at the lack of help from the American authorities has boiled over," a report on the BBC that was posted on its Web site on Jan. 12, stated.

The Sun newspaper in London in a story published in January and carried on its Web site said Central Florida Visa Group cheated a British couple out of more than $195,500 they had received from a second mortgage on their home.

"The company promised to help secure visas and to help with the legal paperwork needed to buy a diving equipment shop in Naples, on the Florida coast," the Sun report said. When the couple tried to close the deal on the shop, they were told their escrow money had been misappropriated by a member of Hall's company.

Hand said efforts to reach Hall to serve him with papers in the Smith lawsuit have been unsuccessful. "We can't find him," the lawyer said.

The suit alleges that Hall and his company entered into an agreement with Smith in 2004. Hall charged Smith $6,000 to help him obtain an E-2 (business) visa and also collected $160,000 from Smith that was to go into an escrow account for the purchase of a Florida business.

In order to be eligible for an E-2 visa, a prospective investor from outside the country must own a business in the United States. When Smith learned in 2005 that he was not going to receive a visa, he tried to get his money back.

"The plaintiff (Smith) has demanded return of his money, but the defendants have disclosed on numerous occasions that the funds to be held in escrow have been taken permanently and used for their purposes," the lawsuit states.

The Civil Remedy for Theft Act enacted by the Florida Legislature in 2006, allows victims of theft to receive restitution equaling three times the amount stolen. In September, 2006, Hand sent Hall a demand for $480,000, plus legal fees and court costs.

In his letter to Hall, Hand wrote: "This demand is sent pursuant to (The Civil Remedy for Theft) statute and the sum demanded represents the treble damage amount, i.e. three times $160,000. This is the sum you have unlawfully taken from my client.

Hall did not respond to the demand, Hand said.

Hall worked for the county for two years, resigning in 1998. According to Tax Collector Joe Tedder, Hall's title was Tourist Development Tax Auditor. He was responsible for seeing that hotels, motels and short-term rental home owners paid the proper amount of tourist tax dollars.

Last November, Hall was arrested by Polk County sheriff's detectives and charged with forgery, uttering a forged document, grand theft and unlawful use of a notary commission.

According to the arrest report, the lien was against a Bartow property owned by Hall and was in response to money owed to Geoffrey Spencer because of a failed business venture. Hall is accused of forging Spencer's name on the document that claimed the lien had been satisfied. He was also charged with having illegally notarized the document with a seal that didn't belong to him.

Hall was freed after posting a $30,000 bail.

A sheriff's spokeswoman said Hall is the subject of an active investigation.

[another1]

So where the hell has he dissappeaed to then, and why cant the find him???????????????????????????

Dee xx The BBC found him at his 'home' in Winter Haven so he's not that difficult to find....Get a better Attorney!:mad:

[PolkWatcher]

This is on The Ledger (www.theledger.com) website....a preview of tomorrows story


Published Friday, February 23, 2007

British Television In Polk Today

By Bill Rufty
The Ledger


LAKELAND --British television crews were in Polk County today filming a segment on English citizens who lost hundreds of thousands of dollars on scams that promised them they would have a business to operate in the United States.

++++++++++++++++++++

The plot is thickening!

[Susie]

Hi Polk Watcher

Yes agree , the plot thickens and will continue to do so. The sheriff said on Bay news 9, they are continuing to investigate, speaks volumes imho

If anyone can find out trial dates and post the info, I would be interested in attending the court proceedings along with the 22 or so victims

Hey what about 50+ of us turning up in expatsvoice t-shirts??

[floridapete]

"Named as defendants in the lawsuit are Hall and his company, along with a man and a woman who are accused of playing a role in the purported fraud, but have yet to be identified."

Huh ?

How can someone be 'named' if they have not yet 'been identified' ?

Anyone know what the names are ?

P.S. I just checked the Polk Co. Court records for this case. I see that 'John Doe' and 'Jane Doe' have been entered as named defendants apart from Doug K. Hall.

Now this may be a legal ploy. Hall has always stated that the monies were 'stolen' from him by other parties but has always failed to name those other parties - or to counter sue those other parties.

So this may just be a way to embroil these other unnamed parties in this suit until such time as they manage to identify them.

[PolkWatcher]

So this may just be a way to embroil these other unnamed parties in this suit until such time as they manage to identify them.

Standard legal procedure where others are involved, but the identies are unknown at the time of filing the lawsuit. The Discovery process will hopefully reveal their identities

[PolkWatcher]

Hall's next court date is on March 6th. Let's see if he shows up, or if he is long gone.

http://www.polksheriff.org/mugphoto/2006028390.jpg

[janine]

Hi Have you any more info re court case? Where it's happening and whether it's a civil or crimminal case etc?
Thanks
Janine

[reecey]

has anyone any idea who the "man and the woman" is ????

[chris]

This week's Reporter has an article by Mike Grogan about our old friend Mr Hall and the latest law suit files against him. The part that truly puzzles me is that Attorney Hand who is representing the British plaintiff, has been unable to serve the papers as they say that can't find Mr Hall!
Well, far be it from me to tell an Attorney how to do their job, but as Mr Hall is subject to a criminal investigation, has been arrested by Polk Sheriff and then released on bail, I would have thought that party to that bail would be knowledge of domicile by the courts and the Sheriff. I would also guess, that as he's been spotted by our intrepid Forum PI's shopping locally he still drives and thereby his FL driving licence carries his domicile which should also be current with FL DMV. Failure to notify change of address to DMV is breaking the law too. Also the plaintiffs Attorney could ask within his own legal world as the last I knew, Mr Hall's wife worked in the DA's office in Bartow. Or do all legal eagles on both sides of the fence stick together? If any intrepid Expat's Voice PI is able to track down Mr Hall and feels they want to let this 'bumbling' attorney know where he is, might I suggest they include a MapQuest link or perhaps even offer a lift to them. And these Attorney's make big bucks. Couldn't find their way out of a paper bag some of them!

[charliesmum]

Quite agree Chris - how can he still be walking around after what he's done to people.

Zoe

[McSporran]

Hi Chris,
I couldn't agree more - perhaps the attorneys are busy counting their money! If it wasn't so tragic it would be comical.

[Dustin]

I have provided telephone numbers and contact addresses to the relevant persons. I too have won a CCJ against him but seem that it is not worth the paper written on as I am unable to collect as he is saying and showing 0 balances on everything he owes.

What a stinking horrible mess to find after costing me $5000 to get the CCJ against Mr. Hall it seems pointless anyone else wasting there money to get the same result.

I find the whole system to be in favor of hall and the losers of money like myself cant fight the case without the good old $$$$$$$ that have been taken.

I too went to halls home to hand deliver a letter from my 13 year daughter who wanted him to understand what he has done to us but he refused to answer the door.

I know it would not have any impact to him as he has shown he has no feelings but I made the promise to Jemma my daughter I would deliver it.

Let’s hope this situation gets a resolve and soon so that others may be saved from becoming another victim. WHY O WHY is this man still allowed to advertise his service STILL on his website even though the police are investigating him. SO WRONG!

I wanted to go to court on Tuesday next week but my family need me more and I miss them so much. So now it is time I went home to try and rebuild what this heartless man has done to my family and many others.

I will keep posting any developments and hope that other victims will PM me so I can give them some advice that may help as I have gone through the system and spent money I did not have to try and get a resolve. I think the lawyers are the only winners in this.

Please contact me if you are a victim of the Central Florida Visa Group & Mr. Hall so I can share the information & help that I have gained from this Expat’s site. Go Susie Go! A BIG help and a rock to my family and I in our time of need. The people I have met while on this trip have been great offering great comfort to us all.

Take care and talk again soon.


Regards


Dustin:eek: :( :confused:

P.S How hard to call him Mr. Hall and not the name I really want to!

[peter gold]

I don't think any one would object if you called him the name you want to.

[SHEILA 13]

Hi Dustin,Keep your Chin Up.
Have a safe journey home and hope to see you and your family soon.
Take Care
Sheila and Family

[chris]

Yes I'm pretty sure you have a favorite place on Mr Hall's person where you'd like to shove a snorkel or perhaps even an oxygen tank!
If you have his current address feel free to pass it on to Mr Hand the 'lost' attorney. Some travel directions might not go amiss either.
I have not met you, only seen you on the beeb news and have followed what you and your family have gone through. It is horrible I know and life I guess feels pretty s****y at the moment, however take heart that your family is a strong one and you are all supporting each other. With that support mechanism in place - you will get through this and be stronger at the other end.
Good luck and God bless

[Everhopefull]

We are more than happy to attend court next Tuesday 6th March, if someone can confirm location.
We can then update shortly after.


Steve

[anniefromessex]

Hi Dustin,

I wish you a very safe journey home to the arms of your family. Keep your chin up, and know that all of us here are rooting for you.

Take care.

Anniex

[Susie]

Hi

Mr Hall's picture truely gives me the creep's, what is it with those eyes?


Dustin,

Don't think I won't miss you when you go home. I know there are still tough times ahead but truely believe that you have achieved so much whilst in Florida this time

You really gave Charlie Christ's office what for today, well done, keep focused and in touch and everthing will work out fine in the end.


God bless Janine , Jemma , Kayley and yourself you are blessed with so much love around you including my boys and myself and so much yet to look forward to and focus on

Sue x

[nomorefla]

We are more than happy to attend court next Tuesday 6th March, if someone can confirm location.
We can then update shortly after.


Steve

If you do can you chuck something heavy at him for me.

[charliesmum]

I think Susie said it was in Bartow - perhaps she can confirm.

Zoe

[floridapete]

This week's Reporter has an article by Mike Grogan about our old friend Mr Hall and the latest law suit files against him. The part that truly puzzles me is that Attorney Hand who is representing the British plaintiff, has been unable to serve the papers as they say that can't find Mr Hall!
Well, far be it from me to tell an Attorney how to do their job, but as Mr Hall is subject to a criminal investigation, has been arrested by Polk Sheriff and then released on bail, I would have thought that party to that bail would be knowledge of domicile by the courts and the Sheriff. I would also guess, that as he's been spotted by our intrepid Forum PI's shopping locally he still drives and thereby his FL driving licence carries his domicile which should also be current with FL DMV. Failure to notify change of address to DMV is breaking the law too. Also the plaintiffs Attorney could ask within his own legal world as the last I knew, Mr Hall's wife worked in the DA's office in Bartow. Or do all legal eagles on both sides of the fence stick together? If any intrepid Expat's Voice PI is able to track down Mr Hall and feels they want to let this 'bumbling' attorney know where he is, might I suggest they include a MapQuest link or perhaps even offer a lift to them. And these Attorney's make big bucks. Couldn't find their way out of a paper bag some of them!

Seems like they found him in the end !

Polk Co. Sheriffs Records online show that the papers were served to Hall at a 'new address' (in fact it is just one of Halls properties - this one in the Winter Haven area) on the 2nd February. So the Ledger article was rather out of date before it even appeared in that respect !

See: http://www.polksheriff.org/cgi-bin/civil02?tran=20070005561

[Dustin]

Give him a kiss from me and make sure it’s a Glasgow kiss!

Dustin

[Everhopefull]

I have just spoken to Sgt Node and he has confirmed the location and time of the court appearance on Tuesday. It is a pre trial hearing, which means the judge will ask both prosecution and defense if they are ready to go. If they are then a date for trial will be set. If not then it will get adjourned for another pre trial hearing. Should last about 5 minutes. We will go in any event.
At the same time the following came in via email from Detective Preston who was if not still is the investigating officer.
I asked for an update about the case a week ago and also asked if the FBI were involved and should we as victims contact them.
.................................................. .......................
"As far as his court appearance on March 6th, this is the first I've heard. I have not been sent a subpoena for that date. Additionally, that date is not relevant to your case.

I've already informed the FBI about it and they were not interested in taking this case. HOWEVER, when a victim makes a complaint, their thoughts about cases tend to change. If you would like to make a complaint with them, you certainly are free to do so.

The reason, as I've told everyone, that you have not heard anything is because there is no update. I have also told everyone that I will notify each and every one of you when an update is available".
--------------------------------------------------
So, is it worth then making a formal complaint to the FBI?
Plus without writing too much here I have canvassed opinion among some of the victims about the actions of a certain lawyer. I think he has something to answer to in this as his name appears on documents that went to the Embassy and certainly on the supposedly escrow funds. Although the police have not taken it further, what about a class or group action against him?
Surely if he was doing his job right this would have been highlighted long before it did and could have saved some victims a lot of money.
I have not had any response from that. Obviously there is a cost implication.
Steve

[floridapete]

Something else occoured to me just yesterday about 'a certain lawyer'.

His name came up on the court records in regards to being the lawyer representing a firm/couple just found guilty of theft and fraud in a Polk Court to the extent of "between $3m and $5m" in connection with a well-known management company now 'out of business'. The final judgement cited substantial fines and penalties against the defendants - if they can ever be found - if they ever pay them !

But it IS a curious coincidence that HE should be their defending attorney. And Hall was also the registered agent for their companies, and shared the same office building with them for a time !

What was that about "birds............." ? :)

[chris]

I find it strange that the FBI are not interested in this case. They clearly see it as an alleged 'local' crime, when in actual fact it is an alleged international crime. Although he operated from offices in Davenport, he actually did his business on an international basis and ceratinly manay of the plaintiffs will have met him through his presence at these trade shows in the UK. I also recall when once talking with our Mr Hall (he did my E2 Visa back in 2000 when with Govoni & Hall of Winter Haven) after they had split and was runnning his infamous company that he used to travel to the UK, Ireland and elsewhere to these trade shows. My question is are some of these alleged crimes classed as bing commited in the UK, Ireland and elsewhere. Are there more possible plaintiffs in other countries?
If this was the UK, the Serious Crimes Squad would be involved due to the nature of what happened. If our Mr Hall were to face trila by jury in say Bartow, I would seriously suggest to any plaintiff that a fair trial is not possible in that city as Mr Hall lives there (or certainly did in 2000-2004) and that his wife when I last had contact worked for the Polk County DA's office in Bartow. For anyone with knowledge of that little part of Polk county, it is a very incestuous area, not much transient population and everyone knows everyone. No doubt Law Enforcemnt, Prosecution will know Mr Hall and his family and for me that would questions of a fair trial from the perspective of the plaintiff. Looking after our own springs to mind.

[Susie]

Hi All

Please be very careful not to name any names on the forum as investigations are on going and innocent until proven guilty. It is ok to mention Doug Hall's name as Dustin won a court case against him last year.

I can confirm that I had a very long conversation with the FBI yesterday. They are not interested or able to get invoolved as this is VISA fraud and as such MUST be handled by the Dept of State Visa Fraud office. Dustin and myself contacted them and this may well help the situation

The FBI agent , kindly gave me the contact details of this special department and confirm I have also spoken with them and Dustin has also given a lot of details to them

When Dustin and I met Sgt Noad with further evidence (784 pages) he explained that they only had three staff members and were overloaded with work . Sgt Noad also asked if we could try to get him extra staff members

[anniefromessex]

Susie,

A cr.p situation all round really - what a Mickey Mouse operation (excuse the pun)!!!

I'm ready for work!!!

Anniexx

[chris]

Reference the crap from the Polk Sheriffs Dept abut being overworked and understaffed (sounds like the London Embassy doesn't it?). Perhaps Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County should be contacted about the situation. Just to highlight a couple of facts. Fact #1: Sheriff Judd makes great public mileage out of the fact that he gave back to the Board of County Commisioners $15.8 million dollars in monies that he did not spend in his department. Fact # 2: The short term vacation rental industry in the north east sector of Polk County (this industry is largely run by the British and many renters are British) contributes 78% of ALL Sales Tax revenue to Polk County. That Tax pays for the Sheriffs Dept. Sheriff Judd, like so many other public officials does not undersatnd the reality of you do not bit the hand that feeds you and has said on more than one occasion that policing the short term rental lot is a pain in the ass.(my translation of his actual words).
So if you want to berate him, please go ahead and politely remind him of what the British does for his county and his department.

[Kriz1]

We get a Sheriffs car around our FL community a few times a day if not more....I was a bit impress seeing that to be honest...

[chris]

No doubt Kriz, but the guy still moans about having to do it. If he had that attitude with his voting communities he would be sent packing with a big flea in his ear.
Annie from Essex - please take not of Susie's remark about mentioning names in this thread. You said M...M.... We don't want D....Y getting all Humpty Dumpty about it. Sorry, there I go again mentioning names!

[Kriz1]

I don't care if he moans....I just want to see those cars driving around everyday....:D :D

[Dustin]

No doubt Kriz, but the guy still moans about having to do it. If he had that attitude with his voting communities he would be sent packing with a big flea in his ear.
Annie from Essex - please take not of Susie's remark about mentioning names in this thread. You said M...M.... We don't want D....Y getting all Humpty Dumpty about it. Sorry, there I go again mentioning names!

Hi Chris

I agree!

Dustin

[Kriz1]

I was just looking for a piece in our local paper on Cape Cod that I read months ago...it was saying how the local police in 2 towns were nolonger going to police areas with large amounts of holiday and second homes....I think thats why I don't mind the moaning if the job is still being done...

[Dustin]

Any News on date place and time of him in court?

Dustin

[Everhopefull]

A bit of an update.
Hall appeared in court yesterday and Dustin along with my wife and I went there.
His lawyer was late so the case was pushed back a short time until he could attend.
Eventually he went before the judge and we couldn't really hear what was being said. We were only allowed to sit at the back and as there was no microphone system it was difficult to hear.
About one and a half minutes later it was over. I had to ask Hall what the outcome was as we didn't know.
Return on April 17th, to do it all again, it would seem.
There was reporter from the Ledger there who spoke to Dustin and travelled down in the lift with Hall when he left.
Steve

[floridapete]

Who is Halls defending attorney ?

[Susie]

Dustin did ask Dough Hall if he would get his money back and Doug replied eventually, hmmm

Hall's attorney told Hall that he did not have to speak with them

[floridapete]

Dustin did ask Dough Hall if he would get his money back and Doug replied eventually, hmmm

Hall's attorney told Hall that he did not have to speak with them

So I will ask again - who was Halls defending attorney in court ?

Somebody must know if you were there !

[Everhopefull]

So I will ask again - who was Halls defending attorney in court ?

Somebody must know if you were there !
I don't, he told Hall not to talk to us but I don't know who he is.
There was no chance of trying to hear it in court.
Steve

[floridapete]

OK, but you saw the guy - so let me ask the question this way.

Was he the 'certain attorney' who Hall used to share an office address with and was known to some of your victims ?

(no names please)

[nomorefla]

I was not there but I cannot for one minute imagine it was the 'certain lawyer' he shared an office with. After all will that not be a conflict of interests. Also i think the 'certain' lawyer' is as aggrieved with Hall as we are.

Just my opinion.

[Susie]

Hi Folkes

Please be very careful and do not try to assume or imply anything. This is hearsay and can be dangerous.

My police training included the word ASSUME if you do in police terms could mean

To assume = Makes an ASS out of you and me

Funny how little snip bits of knowledge can stick with you, but very wise advise indeed

[chris]

With all due respect, I think if you're going to strangle hold people on what can said and what can't be said and I am conscious that this is an ongoing crime investigation. Then I think the wisest decision would be to close this thread to all public comment and debate and those who are involved can PM one another.
You get to the point where postings become meaningless because of what can't be said. The only alternative is to start censorship - which is a bad, bad move.
Personally, I think that removing innuedo from postings may be more appropriate. If Joe Bloggs is the lawyer for Mr Hall, then that does not prejudice anybody's case. Start commenting on that lawyer and yes that does have implications. Keep it factual and to the point.

[Everhopefull]

The attorney who respresent Hall in court is not know to me.
I have spoken to and had dealings with the 'certain' lawyer some of you think it may be.
Its not.
Steve

[Ellie]

http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070310/NEWS/703100399/1004

Published Saturday, March 10, 2007

U.K. Man Loses 'Faith' In U.S. Legal System
Dustin Houghton has yet to collect $194,000 judgement against Polk businessman.

By Mike Grogan
The Reporter


BARTOW - British citizen Dustin Houghton is disenchanted with American justice.

"I've lost faith in the justice system here," he said.

Houghton was waiting outside Courtroom 4A earlier this week to learn the outcome of a pretrial hearing on criminal charges lodged against Polk County businessman Douglas K. Hall.

Hall was arrested in November and charged with grand theft, forgery and unlawful use of a notary following a business deal with another British citizen, Geoffrey Spencer. Tuesday's hearing was continued until April 17 at the request of Hall's lawyer, who waived his client's right to a speedy trial.

Houghton, who won a civil judgment against Hall in November, was at the courthouse even though the criminal case did not involve him. He was in Florida because a British television network, Independent TV, paid his way in order to do a story on Hall's questionable dealings with prospective British investors. British television and newspaper reports as many as 50 British families have been bilked out of an estimated $7 million by Hall.

Hall, Houghton said, has financially devastated his family.

"I lost my job of 13 years and am about to lose my home because of (Hall)," he said.

In November, Houghton won a $194,000 judgment against Hall after mortgaging his home in Eastbourne - which is on the southeast coast of England - and sending the money to Hall to put into an escrow account.

In 2005, Hall, operating as Central Florida Visa Group, contracted with Houghton to help the British resident obtain a business visa and also to aid in the purchase of a business - a dive shop on Florida's west coast.

Houghton not only did not obtain the visa, but the nearly $200,000 he sent Hall toward the purchase of the dive shop disappeared.

"He (Hall) said the money had been misappropriated by someone in his company," Houghton explained.

Houghton didn't believe Hall's story and sued Hall in Polk County civil court, a case Houghton won. But he has been unable to get anything from Hall except one Harley-Davidson motorcycle he was able to sell for $13,000.

"He doesn't have anything," Houghton said. "He has three homes but they've all been foreclosed on. It cost me $5,000 to get a judgment against this guy and it's got me nothing."

Houghton is not the only British resident to accuse Hall of mishandling their escrow money. Feb. 1, Stephen Smith filed a lawsuit in Polk County claiming Hall had absconded with $160,000, funds that were supposed to be used for the down payment on the purchase of a business in Florida.

"Our allegations are (Hall) took the money that was supposed to be in escrow and used it for his own purposes," said Randal M. Hand, Smith's Kissimmee lawyer.

It is not just Houghton's inability to collect on the cash judgment against Hall that has him convinced he will not get satisfaction from the justice system. He lodged complaints against Hall with the U.S. State Department, the FBI and the Polk County Sheriff's Office. He said the State Department and FBI both told him there was nothing they could do.

As for the sheriff, Houghton claimed someone from the agency told him, "They don't have enough resources to do the investigation."

"I don't know where Mr. Houghton got that idea," sheriff's spokeswoman Donna Woods said. "We are investigating Mr. Hall."

She would not provide any details of the investigation.

In the current criminal case against Hall, Spencer accused the Polk County man of forging his name to a lien satisfaction document and illegally notarizing it. Hall is free on $30,000 bail as he awaits trial.

"You know, we've done everything right," Houghton said of his dealings with Hall and his attempts at getting retribution through the courts. "I guess if somebody's going to scam you, they will."

Mike Grogan can be reached at mike.grogan@theledger.com or at 863-421-5811.

[floridapete]

And here is the danger of third-party reporting !

"British television and newspaper reports as many as 50 British families have been bilked out of an estimated $7 million by Hall."

Any British television and newspapers that made that statement (but I don't think they did) got it wrong ! The 50 families quoted and the $7M estimated was not just on the Doug Hall case - but the Mike Leggett/Royal Developments case too ! They were first bundled together by the BBC Radio Five live programme.

Reporters that mis-quote other reporters indulge in lazy journalism !

[Susie]

Hi Chris

I agree with your comments, well said


Keep it factual and to the point.!!!!

The last thing this site needs now or in the future is a lawsuit and neither does any individual member of this site

[Susie]

Hi

Just a point to note on Mike Grogans statement that the TV company paid Dustin's way to the USA this is not strickly true and sure Dustin will confirm.

They did say they would give him 300 pounds towards his trip and know for a fact his flight cost alone was a lot more than 300 pounds, never mind petrol, food and other expenses

Also Dustin did send Dough Hall more than the $200,000.00 more like $215,000.00. The reason Dustin only sued Doug Hall for the $192,000 was because Doug Hall passed $22,500.00 (of the $215,000.00) to the seller of the Naples Shop to be held in good fatih escrow account

[SHEILA 13]

Does it really matter who paid for Dustins flight etc,I dont think he should have to be accountable to anyone where the money came from to allow him to visit here.
Sheila

[Susie]

Poor Dustin, it may well be that he is required to attend court at some point in the future. I hope the court system will pay for the flights. He will certainly have to come back to the USA shortly to continue sorting out a new visa as the seller of the shop sold to another party.

All this expense at a time when he has lost everything. It would have been nice if the TV company paid the full cost of this trip but something is better than nothing. I was a bit upset as the paper gives the impression that the whole cost was paid for by the tv company which is untrue

here is the comment

He was in Florida because a British television network, Independent TV, paid his way in order to do a story on Hall's questionable dealings with

[SHEILA 13]

Sometimes the media can be a Great help and get the publicity what is needed but on many occasions they can "twist"the story to make a good story unfortunetly.
Sheila

[anniefromessex]

Unfortunately, that is the cost we have to pay when things get newsworthy!!

It is soo wrong, but these people are lazy and do not look into the facts - what is wrong with this world - when I was a kid (okay, many moons ago), we took pride in our work, unfortunately that is not the case nowadays and that is why so many things go wrong - nobody cares anymore!!

Anniexx

[Sharon]

I agree with the term lazy reporters.They read someone else's story, twist it around and hey presto another report and get paid a good wage for doing so

[Dustin]

I agree !

Regards

Dustin

[Dustin]

Hi good people,

I have only just managed to see the show again we appreciate the great kindness shown to me by all my expatsvoice friends in Florida. I truly would have been lost without you all, thank you so very much.

Big thanks goes to Susie and her wonderful boys for putting up with me for 2 weeks and for the many hours spent trying to sort the mess out that I have been left with because of Doug Hall.

James Lavigne is a true gentleman so knowledgeable and is now my immigration attorney. He did a good job on film getting his point across in his own subtle way especially the way the rules change in the embassy, one time they give five year visa's then without notice only give two year renewals. Susie and I must have spent more than 12 hours with him during my stay and did not charge me a penny. He has now put me on the right road to a successful start up business on an E visa. At the same time I will try and build up my UK business so that at some time in the future will be able to change from an E visa to L visa and then maybe a green card in the future.

I have watched the program a couple of times and overall feel that they did a very good job. They did seem to get the point across that I did go to a show and met professional immigration attorneys; I did do my homework yet still managed to get scammed via Doug Hall. They also got the point across via the American embassy that you should not go to a one stop type of firm that sells you a business and applies for your visa as they have a vested interest so why I feel overall they did do a good job.

Zoe and Steve did expatsvoice and all of us proud. I am sure that most people will be horrified that they had to wait 18 months for a renewal and sure the embassy staff will be watching the program and approve their case. Good luck guys on your interview, am sure Gurbir would like to follow up if you’re denied and congratulate you if approved.

I am very disappointed that they did not mention expatsvoice in the show and have spoken to Gurbir about this. He is truly sorry but their legal team said they could not mention the site name only at the end of the show referred to their website where there would be advise, so indirectly promoting expatsvoice.

I too am sorry they cut Susie, Lorraine and Annie out of the show but the editor said to have too many different stories would confuse the viewers who knew nothing about immigration. I know Gurbir rang Susie to explain, I do know she understood and in some ways relieved that her Essex girl accent was not heard!, only joking Sue, he, he

Many people have approached me in the street since the show aired, which seems strange to me as not used to strangers knowing my business, I am now getting recognized and from their feed back to me about the show it has come through as a very informative show. They said the filming told a complete story from renting a property, to buying a property, buying a business, visa scams, to people moving back to the UK because their business failed.

Hopefully coming back to the states very soon as I need to get my business plan to James to commence and truly hope this ties in with Doug Hall's next court hearing and hope a few of us can attend the hearing and meet the TV crews outside. Susie is looking into getting some expatsvoice t-shirts printed by the next court date for those who wish to attend and will definitely get expatsvoice message and name out then and the future court hearings. What did that woman mean about the Americans? I think she made herself look silly! I have to say it but I think she was wrong, as all that has happened to me and my family WE STILL LOVE AMERICA AND THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. We will get our dream one day :)


Take care and best regards

Dustin & family
:notworthy:

[Dustin]

My appeal for my job went against me today and was rejected. I am told Unison lawyers will look into the case to see if we can bring this to a tribunal.

Whatever happens now we are focussed in our dream and working hard to make this happen! I hope the corner is now near to turn as I feel I have my fair share of problems for the past 9 months.

I will keep you all updated as promised when we have some new news.

Regards

Dustin

[SHEILA 13]

Keep your Chin up:)
Sheila and Family

[another1]

My appeal for my job went against me today and was rejected. I am told Unison lawyers will look into the case to see if we can bring this to a tribunal.

Whatever happens now we are focussed in our dream and working hard to make this happen! I hope the corner is now near to turn as I feel I have my fair share of problems for the past 9 months.

I will keep you all updated as promised when we have some new news.

Regards

DustinJust wanted to say Hi to you and and your family and find out when you are coming back over....Just saw the 'show' and didn't think it was that bad...If only something was shown like that before we all came here things would have been so much better for all so it should at least help others.... (you would think):rolleyes: ...Also sorry to hear of appeal rejection but if your responses for the new business plan are anything to go by, I'm sure you will have a bright future here in the end...Take care mate.

[Dustin]

Thanks it means a lot to us.
Regards

Dustin

[Dustin]

http://forum.expatsvoice.org/media/ for the story!

[spotty]

Hi Dustin,
Have only just joined the forum as a result of a link off the ITV website which I went to after seeing the programme.
I too have been a victim of scumbag fraudsters in a big way, albeit in a different business situation. The important thing to do is stay focussed and keep going, no matter how down you get you WILL get through it, you will be a much stronger person and they WILL get what is coming to them. There is so much I could write but my situation is ongoing and there's stuff I would never put on here anyway for fear of incriminating myself but suffice it to say that a couple of people will one day very soon wish they had never been born;)
You seem to have a lot of friends all rooting for you, and it's the decent people that get you through these things.
Best of luck,
Michelle.

[Susie]

Hi Dustin,
Have only just joined the forum as a result of a link off the ITV website which I went to after seeing the programme.
I too have been a victim of scumbag fraudsters in a big way, albeit in a different business situation. The important thing to do is stay focussed and keep going, no matter how down you get you WILL get through it, you will be a much stronger person and they WILL get what is coming to them. There is so much I could write but my situation is ongoing and there's stuff I would never put on here anyway for fear of incriminating myself but suffice it to say that a couple of people will one day very soon wish they had never been born;)
You seem to have a lot of friends all rooting for you, and it's the decent people that get you through these things.
Best of luck,
Michelle.

Hi

I am so sorry you too seem to be a victim to someone. Just to let you know we have started a victim support group.

Please be assured you can sen me a private message with your story and it will remain in confindence or you can pm me your contact details and I will call you

Once our victim support group gets a match, eg two of more victims of the same scammer or frudster, I pm them both to see if they wish to be put in touch with each other. I am working on some cases at present and who knows you could well be linked to the same person

This special group is open to anyone who has suffered at the hands of a Visa specialist, immigration attorney or anyone else . It is my hope that sometime in the future to form a recongnised association to protect people's escrow monies and raise industry standards

[spotty]

Hi Susie,
I was actually the victim of someone and a situation unrelated to anything to do with the US, this was a UK business. The way this country treated me totally sickened me to the point I just suddenly decided I wanted to get out, the police here don't care about white-collar crime and will only act if you spend thousands on investigating the fraud yourself (oh yeah, with what??) so you can hand it to them on a plate. Likewise if you don't come into a "PC" category you can end up in the gutter for all the state cares.
My friend has supported me through all this, and I her through her divorce and we just made a joke about emigrating, decided it wasn't half a bad idea and thought lets try the US. It was at that moment I saw the programme on ITV and I guess it was a real warning to go into things a lot more than I perhaps would have done and just be very defensive about all dealings.
I just wanted to offer some support, my situation was different but it had thye same result. The manager that ruined my business was a "friend" I helped out when he needed a job and the consultant that came in befriended me and portrayed himself as my knight in shining armour when in fact he was more the grim reaper:mad: These scammers/confidence tricksters really are the lowest of the low, to call them sewer-dwelling diseased vermin would be an insult to etc etc.
It's very hard to stay positive when you've lost everything but as long as you have your health and your friends you can get through it. They do say the most successful businesspeople are those that have been previously bankrupt or come very close to losing everything because it teaches them valuable lessons for next time and gives them a determination to achieve something even better.
In the meantime a voodoo doll is effective for stress relief, I find;)

[Dustin]

Just to let you guys know Janine and I are off to see our local MP today after waiting forever for our appointment. Not sure what good will come of it but we are trying everything to make our situation with the scammers and the whole visa problems. Again we are going to do our best and will update the outcome as 25 victims and 4.5 million should turn heads and questions should be raised to protect people in the future.

And of course let him know of the discrimination us British are receiving at the hands of the powers that be.

Wish us luck!


Dustin & Janine

[lorraine]

All the best of luck Dustin and Janine we are all with you take care love lorrainex

[Susie]

Just to let you guys know Janine and I are off to see our local MP today after waiting forever for our appointment. Not sure what good will come of it but we are trying everything to make our situation with the scammers and the whole visa problems. Again we are going to do our best and will update the outcome as 25 victims and 4.5 million should turn heads and questions should be raised to protect people in the future.

And of course let him know of the discrimination us British are receiving at the hands of the powers that be.

Wish us luck!


Dustin & Janine

Good luck,

Please start a new thread when you get back so not confused with this one

Hope you tell them the UK govenment needs to regulate the people who have stands and organizers of these shows

I do not think they will interfre in US immigration laws as the US are not allowed to interfre with UK immigration laws, hey ho

[DEE F]

Good luck Dustin and Janine,go get em!!!!!!!!!!!!


Dee xx

[SHEILA 13]

Good luck,keep us posted.:)

[McSporran]

All the very best mate.

[Munish]

Good luck!

[reecey]

Good luck to you !!!!!

[Dustin]

thanks guys! working on it

dustin

[Dustin]

Hi to all that follow our journey!

We are trying to get back over for Doug halls next visit to court and will keep you posted! I will bring my family this time and hope for the expats to meet them and not just me! I will post new thead with invites and of course all will be welcome and not just the nice people i have met but i am sure the nice people i will also meet!

Dustin

:p

[lorraine]

Hi Dustin thinking of you all... Let us know when you coming so we can all get together, we could maybe do and expats day out. Take care kind regards Lorraine

[Dustin]

Dear Loraine
That is so inline with plans I have but need to talk to treacle first to help with plans. I so hope this will happen so I can show my family we do have great support behind us and my trips have been good to me & my family.

Dustin

[Susie]

Hi Pudding (my nickname for Dustin) he calls me Treakle ! Hence Treakle pudding

Good idea, maybe a beach party, BBQ? where we went when you were here last.

Anyone got a boat?, we have jet ski's any other ideas welcome !

[lorraine]

Sounds good to me, beach party bbq. Or anything else that anyone may think of.... we shall all have to get thinking. When will the date be roughly??? Take care see you soon then Dustin and familyxx

[SHEILA 13]

sounds like a good idea to me.

[Sab]

Sounds like a brill idea to me. when I get back I am never going to complain it is too hot in florida ever again. I need some sun.

I have lost my voice now , which may me a good thing for family and friends!!!!!

I had a whole list of fav foods I was going to eat and I have not been able to eat properly for days. Not fair.

[another1]

Just to let you guys know Janine and I are off to see our local MP today after waiting forever for our appointment. Not sure what good will come of it but we are trying everything to make our situation with the scammers and the whole visa problems. Again we are going to do our best and will update the outcome as 25 victims and 4.5 million should turn heads and questions should be raised to protect people in the future.

And of course let him know of the discrimination us British are receiving at the hands of the powers that be.

Wish us luck!


Dustin & Janine

Good luck Dustin...I have recently heard that the show goes on at Sandown this weekend with the 'regular stands', (one we are very familiar with), still selling 'The Dream' to more unsuspecting buyers....Hope they visit this site and stay well away!

[Dustin]

lets hope they do !

Dustin

[nomorefla]

Is anybody going to court on the 17th to see Hall?

[Dustin]

i am over here but not sure it is worh it if it was like the last time!

are you?

Dustin

[nomorefla]

No

I am still in the UK

[DEE F]

If anyone does attend,please post and let us all know what is going on,cheers all.

Dee xx

[Dustin]

Hi
I was unable to attend court this time so if anyone has any information or an update on Doug Hall I would be grateful (and so many others) for this.

Dustin
:( :eek:

[floridapete]

Hi
I was unable to attend court this time so if anyone has any information or an update on Doug Hall I would be grateful (and so many others) for this.

Dustin
:( :eek:

I am reliably informed that the current situation is - another pre-trial on
May 18th (final chance to enter a plea agreement) with Jury selection
on May 29th.

Trial blocks are for 2 weeks and if he is going to trial
the trial should be in the first two weeks in June unless another
continuance is requested.

The Court is unlikely to grant a continuance
without good cause (like more charges to be brought).

[Dustin]

I am reliably informed that the current situation is - another pre-trial on
May 18th (final chance to enter a plea agreement) with Jury selection
on May 29th.

Trial blocks are for 2 weeks and if he is going to trial
the trial should be in the first two weeks in June unless another
continuance is requested.

The Court is unlikely to grant a continuance
without good cause (like more charges to be brought).


Dear Peter

Once again I thank you for your information! I am very grateful for the help you are still providing Janine and I when we ask for it. You are a true friend and hope to meet you sometime soon, I am sure this information will be of use to a lot of people who need to know what is going on as the police here are not too good at giving information on the current situation and progress.

Take care.


Dustin & Janine

[floridapete]

Thanks Dustin.

Please call me when you get back to the UK. I need to speak with you fairly urgently.

Peter.

[Dustin]

Dear Pete

Thank you again a big help.

Dustin

[Kriz1]

Have you been on the sherry Dustin....:D :D

[Dustin]

Nope I just can’t sleep! The jet lag has a very funny affects on me when I get back to the UK never when going to the USA takes me 3/4days to be all there!


Dustin
:drool:

o and the Vodka :D

[lorraine]

Hey Dustin you be back soon and not with it again lolxx See you all soon

[Kitty]

Please keep us updated if you can, this crook is one that needs to be behind bars for many years

[Dustin]

o yes
dustin

[Dustin]

I had a call today from a friend who saw Doug Hall again enjoying his family life out and about.

Dustin
:mad: :mad: :mad:

[anniefromessex]

That is soooo unfair!! Justice will be done in the end though, so keep your chin up.

Love Anniexx

[SHEILA 13]

Dustin,Nothing seems fair in this game .
Keep your Chin Up,you have 2 lovely Daughters to be proud of.
Sheila

[Susie]

Dustin,Nothing seems fair in this game .
Keep your Chin Up,you have 2 lovely Daughters to be proud of.
Sheila



Yes agree

And tons of expats friends waiting to welcome you all when you finally get here:)


If anyone can update the next court hearing, hopefully a few of us can be there and report back, off course will be wearing the t-shirts too!

[nomorefla]

I had a call today from a friend who saw Doug Hall again enjoying his family life out and about.

Dustin
:mad: :mad: :mad:

Hopefully not for too much longer. You would think by now that the police have uncovered more proof/evidence of his con tricks so his days of freedom are numbered.

Chris

[MyOwnBrit]

Someone said jury selection for this guy is on May 29th. Which county?

[Sharon]

Hi, think it will be in Bartow, is that Polk?

[Dustin]

Someone said jury selection for this guy is on May 29th. Which county?

Hi Myownbrit

Polk county BUT this is not for my case or the other victims yet to come me thinks!

I wonder if he knows the full implications of what he has done to me and my family. It just goes on and on. One day he will get what he deservers and make some people try and get on with thiere lives.

Regards

Dustin
:mad:

[lorraine]

Dustin I am a true believer in what goes around comes around , you are good family man , He well I wont comment but he will get what he deserves.... sees you soon xxxx

[SHEILA 13]

Yes I will 2nd that

[anniefromessex]

Dustin,

Just try to think positive - your turn will come. I have my own issues with him, ie we wouldn't be returning to England but for him, so believe you me I am behind you 110%.

Love Anniexxxx

[lorraine]

Annie will sort him out , watch out Annie is about !!

[anniefromessex]

He was actually scared of me - no kidding!!! I think it was when I poked him in the gut with my kalishnikov - it will do it every time!!!!

Love Anniexxx

[MyOwnBrit]

The reason I asked which county is I got a Jury Duty Summons to go through selection on that date (May 29) in Polk County. Isn't Karma wonderful? I'm just sitting here giggling to myself thinking, what if.

[nomorefla]

Myownbrit

It seems you may well be on the Hall case as it is definately 29th that jury selection is being done in Bartow.

Apparently he is confident he will be cleared of all charges.

[janine]

How the hell can he be confident of getting off when he has stolen our money. If he only knew the damage he has done to our family. We have even had to sell our house, and when the sale goes through who knows where we are going to live! I dont know how he has the nerve to go about his normal everyday life. Makes my blood boil!!!

[nomorefla]

Janine

I was told he turned down a plea bargain offered by the State Attorney although it may well be that the plea bargain was not a very good one as I am sure the State Attorney knows there are more impending charges of grand theft to be heaped upon Hall so they did not want to give him an easy cop out.

How he thinks he could ever be found not guilty is anybodys guess. I just wonder if he has something up his sleeve which he is going to produce and shock us all.

I know how you feel as it has caused me and my family no end of heartbreak and I am still massively out of pocket due to his thieving ways.

Chris

[peter gold]

Janine and Nomorefla.

Have the authorities taken statements from you. The more evidence they have the stronger the case and the longer he goes down for

[nomorefla]

Peter

They had all my evidence and statement months ago.

There is not much communication from the Polk Sherriffs dep.

Hopefully the federal authorities are digging deep and getting results.

[peter gold]

Good as long as they have some evidence from you.
Feds work in mysterious and slow ways.

[peter gold]

Good as long as they have some evidence from you.
Feds work in mysterious and slow ways.

[Susie]

Janine

I was told he turned down a plea bargain offered by the State Attorney although it may well be that the plea bargain was not a very good one as I am sure the State Attorney knows there are more impending charges of grand theft to be heaped upon Hall so they did not want to give him an easy cop out.

How he thinks he could ever be found not guilty is anybodys guess. I just wonder if he has something up his sleeve which he is going to produce and shock us all.

I know how you feel as it has caused me and my family no end of heartbreak and I am still massively out of pocket due to his thieving ways.

Chris

Hi


Hall keeps to his story, saying that he is a victim too! Well if thats the case he should spill the beans and let everyone just who is the villian of the peace is and let them take what's coming to them.

Think he will play the I have a bad head/memory and play on the fact he was involved in a serious motor bike crash.

[redsat452]

News about Doug...

Doug Hall pleaded guilty to all four arrest charges. LARC-GRAND 1ST DEGREE 100K DOLS MORE, PASS FORGED-ALTERED INSTRUMENT, PASS FORGED-ALTERED INSTRUMENT and FRAUD-UNLAWFUL USE OF NOTARY COMMISSION. He will have to go to disposition in a few days for sentencing and at that time they will determine jail time.

[Sharon]

Yes. Yes Yes, now did he say he was a victim? is that purjury

[Munish]

Wait to hear the sentence before getting to excited. There might be a plea bargain at play.

[OberonSH]

If it makes anyone happy, my FIL has just returned from a lengthy 'holiday' in the states (Food wasn't bad, resort security excellent but accomodation a little cramped) and if he goes to one of the places he was 'staying' a little showertime accident could be arranged with one of his friends........

I hope the guy goes down. What he did is wrong, horrible and disgusting. I hope he's made an example of.

[nomorefla]

Was anybody in court to see it. Please tell me looked beaten and down.

Hopefully this is the first of many convictions as there are many more of us that need to be taken into account. How long do we think he will get? Anybody got any guesses?

[Dustin]

we are also looking for an update please.

Regards

Dustin

[peter gold]

Now dont get too excited but grand theft first degree is also a felony in the first degree which has a max of 30 years and a fine of $10,000.
My guess would be range of 3 to 7 years

[chris]

Before you all start getting too excited, just remember one thing - the trial is in Bartoww, Polk County - Hicksville USA. Hall is a good ol Bartow boy and his wife worked (last I heard) in the State Attorney's office in Bartow. Bartow is where all the admin & law enforcement is handles and if you are one the Bartow crowd they all know one another. I know I had lunch several times with Hall at Bartow GC (he did my E2 and I'm paying the price through his partners crap work) and who he doesn't know isn't worth mentioning. It's a small town and I'm sure they will look after their own. IMHO

[Kriz1]

Small towns...they don't do a lot for Justice...get arrested on Cape for something big...and you will go to jail because if the cops catch you... you are guilty end of story....and if you are in with the in crowd you can really do what you like...

[Everhopefull]

Well Well Well,,,,,,,

I didn't even know he was up in court yesterday. if I did then I would have attended.
If anyone finds out when he is next up please let us know, we will definately go to see the outcome!
Total lack of any update information from the police department.

Stephen

[nomorefla]

Before you all start getting too excited, just remember one thing - the trial is in Bartoww, Polk County - Hicksville USA. Hall is a good ol Bartow boy and his wife worked (last I heard) in the State Attorney's office in Bartow. Bartow is where all the admin & law enforcement is handles and if you are one the Bartow crowd they all know one another. I know I had lunch several times with Hall at Bartow GC (he did my E2 and I'm paying the price through his partners crap work) and who he doesn't know isn't worth mentioning. It's a small town and I'm sure they will look after their own. IMHO

The difference is that this is a huge incident now which has been covered by international media. Lets say he is given a slap on the wrist, well that wouldn't show the US law enforcement up in a very good light. Given that it is also being investigated by federal authorities who have no loyalties to Bartow or any of its citzens then I think he will get his just desserts.

The next goal is to find who he was in cahoots with, I have my suspicions.

[reecey]

Hope they make an example of him and show the rest of the world that they wont tolerate grand theft as well as these scams going around

[charliesmum]

Chris I think you're right about everyone knowing each other in Bartow - our kids go to school there and every time I go there it's like stepping back to the 50's. Having said that it is very proud of being the centre of all the Admin, Taxes etc for it's county and yes that county is Polk, but they are still a force to be reckoned with. I don't think Mr Hall will have it easy just because he 'knows' people there - let's hope not anyway.

Zoe

[kirtida8]

I wonder if myownbrit was on the jury?

[Everhopefull]

I sent an email to Det Preston asking for some points to be clarified.
This is her reply:

-----------------------------------------
Those charges are not of any concern of any of the other victims in this case for the simple fact that he was charged with forgery/uttering/unlawful use of a notary commission, and theft however the victim in that case is Geoffrey Spencer. As to the reason he was not charged with everything at once, it is complicated. There is a reason we do everything the way we do it. One reason, he couldn't be charged with everything all at once is because all certified documents have not been received from the Embassy.

Your case has not been charged by the federal authorities as of yet. However, I do anticipate that will be done very soon. As I've told everyone, I will notify all of the victims to include yourself, when that is done.

As far as you attending Mr. Hall's sentencing for Mr. Spencer's case, you will need to contact the State Attorney's Office at (863) 534-4800 to find out a date. They do not notify me (in the capacity of a law enforcement officer) because my testimony is not needed at that sentencing. If you are not allowed to go for some reason or unable to attend, I'm sure Mr. Spencer will notify you of the results.

Additionally, you should be able to see Mr. Hall's picture at www.polksheriff.org then view on the left side under jail information. You will have to uncheck the "current inmates" part so that you can see his last jail information.
----------------------------------------
I can understand she would not want a lot of emails now.
Steve

[Sharon]

Before you all start getting too excited, just remember one thing - the trial is in Bartoww, Polk County - Hicksville USA. Hall is a good ol Bartow boy and his wife worked (last I heard) in the State Attorney's office in Bartow. Bartow is where all the admin & law enforcement is handles and if you are one the Bartow crowd they all know one another. I know I had lunch several times with Hall at Bartow GC (he did my E2 and I'm paying the price through his partners crap work) and who he doesn't know isn't worth mentioning. It's a small town and I'm sure they will look after their own. IMHO



Thants just so unreal. Someone mentioned to me that he looks after people in high places! suspect that is with other peoples money, bit like robin hood, except Hall robs from the poor and gives to the rich

[Susie]

News about Doug...

Doug Hall pleaded guilty to all four arrest charges. LARC-GRAND 1ST DEGREE 100K DOLS MORE, PASS FORGED-ALTERED INSTRUMENT, PASS FORGED-ALTERED INSTRUMENT and FRAUD-UNLAWFUL USE OF NOTARY COMMISSION. He will have to go to disposition in a few days for sentencing and at that time they will determine jail time.



Hope this does not mean he is given a lighter sentence just cos his owned up to the charges

[Dustin]

My lawyer say's he will do no time for this!

watch this space!

Dustin :mad:

[MyOwnBrit]

Sorry guys, no luck getting on his jury.

[nomorefla]

My lawyer say's he will do no time for this!

watch this space!

Dustin :mad:

What will he get then?

Will be a kick in the teeth if he gets a fine and somehow finds the money to pay it.

[peter gold]

I am not fully up on the case , but it seems these may not be all the charges he is to face. It seems there are more so dont be despondent.

[Susie]

Watch this space as am sure the sarga is going to continue

[Dustin]

What will he get then?

Will be a kick in the teeth if he gets a fine and somehow finds the money to pay it.

I so hope he will get the keys lost to his cell if he ever makes it.

If only he had remorse for what he has done to my family and many others, I just don’t think he truly understands the situations the victims are finding themselves in.

What a heartless man he is!!

Dustin
:( :fit: :confused: :mad: i think the smilies say how it is at the moment!

[Susie]

Well Dustin, at least you did not refer to him as a gentleman !

[nomorefla]

Anybody know when sentencing is for his first raft of charges.

[Dustin]

The last info I had was that, following his last court
appearance where he filed a 'guilty' plea with the court, the court
would then reconvene about 30th June when the Judge would deliver his
verdict and sentence him with no need of a jury trial.

Dustin

[Dustin]

“Doug Hall is currently scheduled for a restitution hearing and pre-sentencing on August 7, 2007.This is the hearing where they will determine how much he owes the victim and what the pre-sentencing report is recommending for his sentence.

The pre-sentencing report will also contain the scoring sheet which is what the court uses in determining how many points he gets for the crimes that he is pled guilty. Once the scores total for all of his offenses if the score is below a certain number he will be sentenced to probation. If the score is above the required level he will get one month of jail time for each point that he scores.

I'm not sure how would score sheet will or flex all four charges that he is pled guilty to what it should equate to some prison time. If there are any extenuating circumstances the judge can adjust the sentence with justification by up to 10%. The court may actually sentence Doug on August 7, 2007 or they may set a sentencing date for later time if his defense attorney requests additional time to provide some evidence of mitigating circumstances that may assist the court in its sentencing decision.”

I have had this information kindly passed onto me by a good friend trying to keep us up to date. I thank them for this update and information as I am sure other victim’s will join me.

Regards


Dustin
:)

[anniefromessex]

Sorry, me being thick as usual but have your charges or whatever even come up yet?

Love Anniexxx

[Dustin]

Nope this is for somthing else so we is next i hope.

Dustin

(we only found this out 2 months ago)

[anniefromessex]

Okay, I'm in the loop now!!! Will be keeping everything crossed for you - that guy has soooo much to answer for, we wouldn't be in this mess if it wasn't for him, grrrrrrrrr!!!

Keep chin up Dustin - think of your girls!!!

Love Anniexxx

[Susie]

Hang on in their victims, I truely hope and pray that justice does prevail in the end and he gets all that is coming to him.


My mum used to say, what goes around comes around amd she was usually right in everything she taught me


If and I stress IF, he is found innocent and a victim himself (his words) then hope other heads roll

[nomorefla]

So where is he at the minute. Is he still in his Winter Haven home or is he locked up until sentencing.

I know where he should be.

[Everhopefull]

He is in court on the 7th at 11am.
We will be going to see the outcome and will keep you all updated.

Stephen

[Dustin]

I look forward to it!

Dustin

[Sharon]

Good cannot wait

[Dustin]

He is in court on the 7th at 11am.
We will be going to see the outcome and will keep you all updated.

Stephen


Good Luck Steve! Please let us know the outcome. Also if you get the chance to talk to him could you pass on my regards and let him know that he has now made us homeless.

Not that I am trying to make him feel guilty or anything as we don’t think he has any!

Thanks Steve I am sure you will want to try and talk to him yourself but would help us if you could pass it on.

Regards

Dustin

Today I think we will see him walk the streets free again! I have been waiting for this day and hope that other Expats are able to make the court for his sentencing today. T-****s are a must!!..:fit: