On May 20, 2011,two of the lead foreclosure fraud investigators in the Florida state Attorney General's Office were brought into a meeting and told to resign or that they would be let go immediately. The force-out occurred during a meeting between Theresa Edwards, June Clarkson and former South Florida bureau chief for the Economic Crimes Section of the attorney general's office Robert Julian, who relayed the information to the investigators. The move was an abrupt surprise to Edwards and Clarkson as they have been subjects of only stellar performance reviews in the past.
A Palm Beach Post article provides the details of just how astute these employees were. An April 22 performance review of Ms. Edwards by Mr. Julian is evidence to this. It reads:
"During this interim period, Ms. Edwards has, along with another attorney, achieved what is believed to be the first settlement in the United States relating to law firm foreclosure mills." It goes on to say, "her work has been instrumental in triggering a nationwide review of such practices." Ms. Clarkson received "above expectation" or "exceptional" rankings during a performance evaluation, given by Mr. Julian, on 14 out of 15 categories.
The duo was critical in securing a $2 million settlement from the Law Offices of Marshall C. Watson back in March.
This force out has put the motivations of Florida Governor Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi under much scrutiny.No matter what Florida leaders decide to do there are still many people are fighting for homeowners' interests. If you are facing the realities of a Florida Foreclosure Lawsuit, contact Jacksonville Foreclosure Lawyer or a Florida Foreclosure Lawyer as soon as possible to determine what options may be available.
