PMG lending Group Robert J Bellinger, Rob Bellinger No loan but refused to return escrow Funds East Aurora, New York

On 18th of march , 2012. I saw an ad for'hard Money Lender" on Mortgage Grapevine Website, namely, Brantley & Associates ( 713-981-5926). I contacted Mr Odis Brantley- the owner of the company (713-981-5926) and ask about his company and the ad on the website. After we spoke, Mr Brantley told me he would contact his Associates to see what he can do to offer me the loan amount I am requesting. On march 19th, I received a call from Mr. Robert Bellinger who introduced himself as the Owner of PMG lending and that he got my information from Mr. Brantley who he knows for over 11 years and that they have been working together for the same amount of time. He said he will do his best to assist us to make the closing date scheduled for April 15th ( changed to April 13th) on the house.

We started communicating via email and telephone. He also contactd my realtor and provided her with 'a preapproval letter" to give to the seller. We worked with Mr Bellinger offering him, at his request, $250 for an appraisal and $16,580 as the 10% down payment towards the loan amt. Both checks where mailed using USPS postal service with proof of delivery signatures from Mr Bellinger.

Delivery was made on 20th and 21st of march respectively.

Mr Bellinger emails my realtor stating he will have the appraisal done on friday or saturday of the same week he received the checks, nothing happened. There was no appraiser despite his claim that the man will be available and will contact the realtor when he gets to the location. We (my realtor and I) tried to call Mr. Bellinger to find out the location of the appaiser and we got no response. He emailed me on 26th of march in response to my email to terminate the contract and return the funds. He acknowledge that he has the money and also express his intent to "cancel all deals". I have yet to see any of my money return nor have i had any further communication with Mr Bellinger, except through my attorney.

I have also contacted the East Aurora police department, Erie County District Attorney special Investigation unit, I filed a police complained with the Lake county police dept in Indiana, I filed another with Merrillville FBI office. I feel helpless despite all the actions I have taken because I have yet to recover any of our money. nor received any further assistance from law enforcement.