Yesterday I received a letter in the mail from JBC Legal Group regarding a dishonored check dating back to November 30,1993. The dishonored check was written to Macy's for $205.07. There was no information provided regarding the Check Number, the Bank Account, or the Bank on which this check was written. I found this to be highly suspect. I have recently bought a house and this check did not appear on any of the credit reports that were run, which it should have if it was a legitimate bounced check.
First thing this morning I called JBC Legal to get more information and clear this matter up. When I reached them, I spoke with a gentleman; he looked up my account and confirmed the information in the letter. I told him that I suspected that this was a fraudulent check and asked if I could obtain a copy of the check. He said I could not and that I would receive a copy of the check after I had paid the amount due. I told him there was no way I was paying for something with so little information, especially when I felt there may be check fraud involved. He told me that my driver's license number was written on the back of the check. I have my driver's license printed on all my checks, so of course they have my driver's license number.
I then asked again for a copy of the check, I told him I needed that to prove that I did not write the check and I needed it to go to the police. He told me it was too late to contact the police regarding this matter, that I should have contacted them when it happened. I then explained that IF I had know about it 11 years ago I would have, but since this is the first I have heard of it, I would have to take action now.
I mentioned that I had opened several bank accounts over the last 11 years and had never heard about this matter then and that banks generally do not let people with bounced checks open new accounts. He had nothing to say to this. I asked what I had to do to obtain a copy of the check. He said I had to pay the amount and then they would send me the check. I said I would not pay $200 without first seeing the check. He then told me I could be charged with a Federal Crime for bouncing a check and if an investigation was open, there is a very good chance I would be paying heavy fines and all the lawyer fees.
I then asked to speak with the attorney listed on the letter, Jack Boyajian, he said he was in court. I asked when I could speak to him, and I was told he really is not in the office, he is always in court. I mentioned to him that I felt this was some kind of scam and that I really needed to see a copy of the check before I could do anything. He then told me to call the Better Business Bureau (BBB). So I hung up the phone and called the BBB.
I immediately contact the Better Business Bureau in New Jersey where I learned JBC had an unfavorable rating and that they had numerous unresolved cases. I asked what these cases were regarding, but they can not give out that information.
I then contact the bank I used 11 years ago to find out if they could produce a copy of this dishonored check. They do not have a record of the check or my account with them because it has been so long.
I then went to the Internet and found numerous postings similar to mine. I am very sure that this is some kind of scam and plan on taking action.
Chris
San Carlos, California
U.S.A.
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