A woman who was among the many who lost money in the recent Johnson and Niswonger Financial bogus municipal bonds scam decided to do something about it by hearing from other injured parties who would be willing to join a class action suit with her to be filed against Jim Johnson and Darrell Niswonger.
A class action suit is a legal proceeding in which one or more plaintiffs (people filing the lawsuit) represent a larger group of individuals who have been similarly harmed by the same defendant’s actions. The purpose is to bring a single lawsuit on behalf of all members of the class, allowing for the efficient resolution of numerous similar claims.
“I wanted to do something after I lost money to Johnson and Niswonger,” said Sheryl Winschel. “This may be the best way that those of us can get at least some of our money back.”
Winschel also noted that, while around 75 people have already been contacted by the F.B.I about the scam, there may be other people in the community who may have missed the news or for some other reason, have just become aware that they are victims. Since she has heard that Johnson and Niswonger may have started the scam in the early 2000s, she believes the number of people who have lost money could end up being in the hundreds.
“If you think you lost money with Johnson and Niswonger, you should call the F.B.I. to report it,” Winschel said. “You can call them or go online to make a report. You can also call the Perry County Sheriff’s Office. People can also file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Insurance (DCI).”
To file a complaint with the DCI, you can submit a complaint online, download a complaint form to mail or fax, or contact them by phone. The department’s website provides links for filing complaints and offers contact information for its consumer service division. The Property Insurance Coverage Law Blog recommends providing supporting documentation to your complaint, such as copies of insurance policies and written communications.
