A Pinellas County circuit judge has ordered Global Resources Inc. to pay $ 2.2 million, including restitution to 96 people who were defrauded out of their investments.
According to the commission, Global Resources advertised that it could provide buyers public access Internet machines for investments ranging from $8,000 to $108.000. However, not only did the company not help in locating and setting up kiosks, it also failed to deliver the Internet machines. Those trying to receive refunds were ignored, and complaints were filed with the Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commission, who filed the lawsuit.
"These people put their faith and money into a business venture and got absolutely nothing in return," said agriculture commissioner Charles H. Bronson. "We asked for and received the maximum fine for each offense, and I hope this sends a message that we will go after companies that rip off our citizens."
Bronson filed the lawsuit charging Global Resources with violations of the state's Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act as well as the Sale of Business Opportunities Act.
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