South Florida Business Journal

July 9, 2007

The Las Olas Co. said it has contacted authorities regarding a fraudulent campaign the company said is being perpetrated in its name.

The Fort Lauderdale development firm said a "sweepstakes" in being offered by Las Olas Financial, a fictitious division of Las Olas Co.

The real company said it has received numerous phone calls and e-mails from consumers nationwide, describing the fake sweepstakes.

Consumers said they received a letter, stating they had been elected for a $57,000 prize, with an introductory check included. The check, for $2,996.84, carried instructions to be cashed with a false claim code. Customers were then to wire or money order those funds, which were to go toward an administrative payment for clearance of the prize.

Las Olas Co. said the letters were signed by eight different names/agents, none of which are associated with the company.