ATTENTION MEDIA: READ THIS FIRST
There are two threads covering Agape World, Inc. on Fatwallet Finance. This is the second one. The original thread is located here: Question about Agape World Inc.
Please note the first user response from SUCKISSTAPLES pointed out this was a scam over a year ago (November 12, 2007 5:02 PM):
SUCKISSTAPLES said:"13-14% returns"
"mlm paid for signups"
"made a million"
how many braincells does it take to figure out this is 100% scam?
Members of the media should take note that all 'defenses' of Agape from the beginning of the first thread until now are always from NEW USERS who are/were highly likely to be Agape employees or investors. Every established member of the forum community who commented in these threads pointed out this was a scam.
ATTENTION VICTIMS: READ THIS FIRST
There is no longer any question that this was a scam. This is now a international news story that has been covered by CNBC, Bloomberg, and local media in New York. The government's press release and case documents can be viewed at the link below.
Contact the FBI directly with all relevant information you have. Never respond to emails or messages from persons claiming to be investigators or promising to get your money back. Always call the MAIN number of the particular law enforcement agency to verify that any direct numbers posted/given to you are legitimate. Better yet, if possible, go in person, directly to the law enforcement station, with all documentation you have.
The government's press release has provided the following contact information for scam victims: "Individuals who believe that they may be victims of this charged fraud scheme, or who have relevant information, can contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at PICinnamo@usps.gov, or the FBI at (212) 384-2166." Do not contact anyone else.
Copy of the government's case against Agape World, Inc.: U.S.A vs. Nick Cosme (51 Page PDF)
FBI - New York - Press Release - http://newyork.fbi.gov/pressrel/2009/nyfo012709.htm
Summary of Events (by forum member: smackfu)
FatWallet Members: It's an obvious scam since the returns are too high.
Agape Investors/Shills: Is not, they seem very convincing in person and bridge loans are a real thing.
FatWallet Members: Red flags, red flags! Excessive spending by employees, founder has criminal fraud record.
Agape Investors/Shills: I'm still getting my checks, they've been around 10 years, this is totally not a scam.
(...years pass...)
Agape Investors/Shills: I'm not getting my check this month, could this be a scam?
FatWallet Members: We told you so.
Agape Investors/Shills: I can't believe I was scammed, how could I have seen this coming.
REALITY 2009 Bites !!
ClawBack :
Put it this way, even if 2 years ago you somehow withdrew every dime you had ever invested with Agape, that check and any other check you ever received from Agape can be subject to clawback.
Attention First Time FatWallet Members
I am truly sorry for your loss. Your best bet at setting your financial house right again is to
1. Report all known Agape (hidden) resources to the appropriate agencies
2. Use appropriate tax strategies to claim losses
3. Move beyond this thread and read the rest of the forum to learn how to handle your resources wisely. When you do, please remember this forum is geared at those that are financially sophisticated and focused on sharing and developing financial deals So read first. And read again. Make sure you read the FAQs and stickies. Search before posting. And post basic questions in the questions thread
