Looking for info on a non profit (Kissimmee: crime, attorney) - Orlando - Florida (FL) - City-Data Forum

omigawd · 03-22-2009, 06:35 AM

Does anyone know how to find out if a certain non-profit organization actually exists?? It's supposedly located in Kissimmee.... I believe the guy that runs this supposed "organization" scammed my friend out of a lot of money and I'm trying to find out whatever I can about him and/or the organization.

Thanks.

annerk · 03-22-2009, 07:27 AM

Search for Charities, Online Version of Publication 78

You can search for 501(c)3 charities here. If they aren't listed, I'd call them directly and ask for their 501(c)3 number. If they won't give it to you, file a complaint with the IRS and State Attorney General's Office.

omigawd · 03-22-2009, 08:11 AM

Thanks, annerk.... I checked and, of course, nothing.....

s8film40 · 03-22-2009, 10:58 AM

Try here also.

www.sunbiz.org - Document Searches

omigawd · 03-22-2009, 01:59 PM

Thanks S8... nothing there, either. I just know this guy is a scam artist. He took my friend for a lot of money, but she doesn't want to believe that he's a thief and a con artist.

Parrotrosie · 03-22-2009, 08:17 PM

I would report this CRIME to the police department ASAP and follow their advice on what to do next. The sooner the better, altho, it's not likely to get her money back, sadly. These guys are fly by night.

omigawd · 03-22-2009, 09:29 PM

I tried reporting it to the police --- both here in NY and in FL ---- but they said there's nothing they can do until the victim comes forward. They told me to talk to her about it and try and make her understand that this is an age-old scam and that she's a victim. My biggest problem is, she absolutely refuses to see that she got taken and she believes this guy is honest, etc.

If I told you the whole story, you wouldn't believe it. It is so ridiculous and so obviously a big scam.... He initially took her for 20K --- yes, 20 THOUSAND dollars --- and I'm sure she's given him more money since then, but she's embarassed to admit it.

I'm going to keep trying to find out information and see if I can convince her that he's a thief. It's already putting a strain on our friendship, though, and I feel like if I keep pushing the issue, our friendship is going to be over.

mongoslade223 · 03-22-2009, 10:32 PM

Yeah there's only so much you can do........You did all you can It might be best to lean back and let her learn the hard way. Some people become resentful when you try to look out for them.

omigawd · 03-23-2009, 07:46 PM

I think this is exactly what I'm going to have to do.... Next time I see her, I'm just going to tell her I don't want to hear any more about this guy's schemes, plans, or deals. I'm hoping she'll eventually see the light of day.

Parrotrosie · 03-23-2009, 08:54 PM

Well, perhaps you can find some examples on line of similar things (you probably already have) but I think a big reason folks don't admit to being a victim is they feel so embarassed, stupid, and well, victimized. Sometimes a little sympathy and understanding go a long way. Be kind and supportive is all you can do, your anger won't help your friend...they have to get there on their own. Just be the best friend you can - I know you are trying