Pinellas Consumer Protection Uncovers Multi-State Real Estate Scam

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — A multi-state investigation initiated by Pinellas County Consumer Protection into a telemarketing business operating in Pinellas County has resulted in three people being charged in a scheme to defraud more than 100 victims.

Marvin Scott, Chamera Bowman and Tammy Van Wie were charged on April 19 with scheming to defraud, and Scott was also charged with money laundering. They operated businesses under the names Nationwide Listings, Elite Property Listings Corp. and Worldwide Property Listings LLC.

Investigators say, between October 2017 and November 2020, the Scott, Bowman and Wie solicited people from 37 states who owned vacant properties, falsely claiming to have buyers wanting to purchase their land.

Over three years, Scott, Bowman and Wie defrauded people out of more than $1 million.

“Consumers should continue to be cautious whenever they are solicited by telephone from individuals seeking payment for any services,” said Doug Templeton, chief investigator for Pinellas County Consumer Protection. “Also, make sure you only work with licensed real estate professionals when attempting to sell real estate.”

Pinellas County Consumer Protection, with the help of partners, is charged with protecting the interests of consumers and legitimate businesses.

Anyone who believes he or she is the victim of a real estate scam, should call 727-464-6200 or file a complaint here.