US v. Grover Stewart A/K/A Lee Stewart

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (CLOSED)

Most Recent Update 9/04 (See end of document)

General Information:

On February 21, 2003, the United States of America filed a complaint against Grover Stewart A/K/A Lee Stewart in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida (Civil Docket Case #: 03-CV-60237). In the complaint, the United States alleges that Stewart offered franchises to the public without making disclosures that are required by law. The Government has alleged that, when promoting and selling its business opportunities, Stewart engaged in sales practices that violate Federal Trade Commission regulations relating to the sale of franchises and the Federal Trade Commission Act.

Future developments in this case will be posted to this web page. As such, please do not attempt to contact the Consumer Protection Branch by telephone or e-mail. For more information in this matter, please visit the related case site: US v. Nationwide Premium Cigar Distributors Corp., et al.

11/03 Update:

No change in status.

2/04 Update:

No change in status.

9/04 Update:

On March 29, 2004, a final Order was entered by the Court which, among other things, banned the defendant, Grover Stewart, for a period of three years from engaging or participating in the advertising, promotion, offering for sale, or sale of any Business Venture or Franchise. Further, after this three year period the defendant is permanently prohibited from any such activities unless he first obtains a surety bond in the sum of $100,000. Consumer redress of $90,000 was suspended due to the financial condition of defendant.

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