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FYI: Sen. White Makes Appeal to Fraud Victims

The following material is being published, unedited, exactly as it was received via e-mail from the office of the government official named below, as a Source community service. Government office holders wishing to contribute to the bulletin board must e-mail source@viaccess.net. The Source reserves the right to choose what is published.
March 12, 2007 – On Thursday, March 8, 2007, Senator Celestino A. White Sr. met with victims of an alleged scam artist who has been arrested and is now in detention awaiting trial.
According to published reports, one of the ways Joel Archibald preyed upon his victims was by taking down payments for construction work he never completed.
During the meeting, which was held to draft legislation and determine ways to protect consumers from contractor scams, Senator White learned that there may be other victims too scared or embarrassed to come forward.
"This is a sad, sad situation," said Senator White. "Some people have lost their life savings. We need everyone who may have been hurt in this matter to go to the Attorney General's office or the police station and file a complaint.
Senator White has written Attorney General Nominee Vincent Frazer and his staff to commend them on their work so far on this matter and also to let him know that other potential victims are being referred to his office.
Senator White continued by explaining that being a victim of this kind of fraud is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.
"People often get embarrassed that their trust and good nature has been abused," said Senator White. "If anyone needs help coming forward or wants someone besides the law to talk to about filing charges, do not be afraid to call my office so that we can assist you."
"Be diligent, don't trust, get references, and always be very cautious when spending large sums of money," Senator White advised. "And please, please call me or go to the authorities if you have any concerns whatsoever in this matter.
Senator White concluded with a reminder that Mr. Archibald, while he has indeed been arrested, has not been convicted and is presumed innocent unless found guilty in court.

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