Crow, Inc Hans J. Schindhelm-Master Restorer Master of Deceit and misinformation--worst customer service ever- Claims to restore Hummels but keeps them instead. Internet

I sent a Hummel figurine that was my Mother's to Crow, Inc.  My mother passeds away in March of 2011 and I received her Hummel collection.  One of the Hummels called "Carnival" needed a repair of a piece that was broken off.  After searching on line for a company that does this type of thing.  I chose Crow, Inc. 

I sent the Hummel to Mr. Schindhelm on October 8, 2011 for an estimate to restore it.  After receiving his estimate and contract, I sent a check for $203.25 on November 7, 2011 and contracted him to do the restoration and repair.  He cashed my check on November 14, 2011. I was prepared to wait for the repair for 6-12 months as stated in the contract. 

After 6 months, I tried to maintain contact with My Schindhelm for an estimate of how much longer it would take.  I kept getting his pat answer of" be patient and I will expedite your order".  Over and over,

this was his response.  However, since June 05, 2012, I have not received an answer to emails or phone messages. 

This appears to be a business that uses it's internet advertising to take advantage of trusting people who mail their treasured Hummels to Mr. Schindhelm and rarely get them back.  I also got the story about the flood and snow storm.  I am angry at being conned but I am most heart-sick over the loss of this Hummel.  

I would advise anyone looking for a restoration of a Hummel to hire someone else.  This company can not be trusted.  When I checked on the references that were given by Mr. Schindhelm, on line, none of them had ever heard of him or his company.  Too bad I didn't check them first.  Lesson learned.  Don't fall for this web advertising. 

I have contacted the Attorney General of New York and the Better Business Bureau.  Even if I don't get my Hummel back, hopefully this business won't scam anyone else because the word is out.