Arizona AG: Victims of business opportunity scam to receive restitution
Feb 16, 2019, 11:17 AM
(AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
PHOENIX — The Arizona Attorney General’s Office announced it has received more than $200,000 in restitution money for victims of a business opportunity scam.
According to Attorney General Mark Brnovich, Charles Richard Montoya Mayville of Alternate Online Design LLC will pay up to $265,000 to those who purchased work from the company.
“While there are some legitimate internet business opportunities, if you are being pressured into investing in something without time to do research, walk away,” Brnovich said in a statement.
“Potential business partners should respect your need to thoroughly vet an opportunity before committing time or money. Consumers really need to do their homework on companies and individuals before handing over their hard-earned money.”
In addition to the payment, Mayville was also banned from selling any kind of business opportunities in Arizona for 20 years.
The Attorney General’s Office opened an investigation into the company after it had received complaints that Alternate Online Design LLC allegedly misrepresented that consumers who purchased a website from the company could make thousands of dollars each month in commissions.
The complaint said the company was unable to locate a single consumer who made enough money to cover the price of Alternative Online Design’s services.
The Better Business Bureau has an “F” rating for Mayville’s company.
For consumers who purchased a website from Alternative Online Design LLC and believe they are entitled to restitution, the Attorney General’s Office recommends submitting a consumer complaint.
The deadline to file is March 29.