Story Published:
Oct 7, 2009 at 6:49 PM MST
Story Updated:
Oct 7, 2009 at 6:49 PM MST
BILLINGS - An Ohio man thought he was applying for a job in international training projects with American Police Force, but he's the latest target of an alleged California conman.
When Michael Cohen submitted his resume for a possible job in international training projects on American Police Force's website several weeks ago he had no idea what would happen next. "He called me and said he received my information and would like to discuss a project he had going on," said Cohen. "He" is Michael Hilton, leader of APF and a man whose criminal history includes convictions for fraud and theft, a man also pushing to take over the vacant Hardin Jail.
"As I asked him more specific questions about the project he wouldn't give me specific answers. He never told me what the project was about and I never met with him again," said Cohen. The Ohio man says at no time during his conversation with Hilton did he ever mention anything about Cohen running the jail, but Two Rivers Authority board members claim Hilton told them Cohen was onboard and ready to take control.
"I would like to know what kind recourse I have that he's giving my name and information to this board saying i was going to be part of it," said Cohen.
Cohen cut off all ties to Hilton before he could be scammed, but a California man wasn't so lucky. "I had my dealings with him almost 10 years ago," said Rick Earnhart.
Earnhart says Hilton convinced him to invest more $100,000 dollars into a retirement complex center in southern California. At first he says it seemed like a great deal, Earnhart even claims Hilton gave him lavish gifts to show his commitment to the project. "I went down and he bought me a Mercedes which was only in my driveway for three weeks. Then they came and repossessed it," said Earnhart.
Hilton and the money vanished soon after. Earnhart took legal action and won, however Hilton is yet to pay up. "Even if I don't receive a penny I am so happy to stop this guy before he was able to screw the fine citizens of Billings or Hardin.
A Los Angeles Superior Court judge has ordered Hilton to appear in court on October 29th, to explain why he hasn't paid Earnhart; and to reveal all assets he has attached to American Police Force.
KULR-8 contacted the dealership in California where Hilton acquired the two Mercedes he showed up with in Hardin to see if they were also in jeopardy of being repossessed. They declined comment citing federal and state privacy laws.
;)
You have indicated this comment should be removed.
The comment has been submitted for review. Thank you .