I contracted Worldwide Tracer, Inc.in August for a two year birth parent search. I had seen the company on the "Amy Grant" show that has long since been cancelled 4 years back. I had extensive conversations with Kirk Rutherford, the Director, prior to any contract or payment. The agreement was to have the first update after 90 days and then every 60 days. During this time period, I was diagnosed with cancer and was preoccupied. I didn't worry about the fact that I had never received updates. I had contacted the company 2 times to inquire about status. One I was told that nothing had been found yet, the second I was told that Mr. Rutherford had health issues and everything was delayed. No other communication or updates. On July 21 I decided to send an email to Mr. Rutherford that I was disappointed in Worldwide Tracers services. That I hadn't received any updates or communication and I felt that I had been taken. (I have saved all sent and received emails). Specifically, an email stating that I was a dissatisfied client, stated in a professional manner. 2 hours later, I received a shocking rude and manipulative email from Mr. Rutherford stating some incredibly disturbing phrases and accusations. I read and re-read the email many times before responding. I sent a response the it was an unnecessary response that he had given me. All I had said was that I was a unhappy client. My last line was "this seems to be a form letter." That prompted an even angrier and longer email with more disturbing accusations. Following this, I promptly contacted the BBB of Fort Worth, Texas and filed a complaint. I received another angry email stating he was glad I was no longer a client and that I was "not a nice person"! The next morning he was sent the BBB complaint and I was notified of that. An hour after that, I received an email from Kirk Rutherford stating he was a "practicing Christian" and that he had prayed about this and he wanted to apologize, stating that it had "nothing to do with the BBB complaint". Searching for my birth parents has been a lifetime process and knowing that there is someone out there like Mr. Rutherford, who preys upon people who are in a weaker emotional state by ending outrageous, rude and accusing emails to those who question his services. It is truly sad and horrifying.
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