Court Halts Operations at ‘Legend Windows’, Freezes Assets Amid Fraud Claims

Operations at Legend Windows – a window and door supplier in Alabama – have been suspended indefinitely, after allegations of fraudulent practices were made against the business. The Circuit Court of Shelby County has granted an emergency request for a temporary restraining order at the business, freezing all assets related to the firm and its affiliates.

Unlawful Practices Alleged

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall accused Legend Windows, along with individuals affiliated with the company, of violating Alabama’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The company’s manager, Jody Ray Whitworth, his relative Bobby Ray Whitworth, and Robin Simmons Willard are identified as the key individuals implicated in the alleged scam.

According to Marshall, the accused lured customers into paying deposits for new windows and doors, with the promise of delivering agreed-upon products. However, the company allegedly failed to fulfil their end of the agreement, leaving consumers with neither the product they paid for nor a refund. As a result of these accusations, Legend Windows is now ordered to halt operations indefinitely.

Mishandling of Customer Funds

Investigations into the firm’s financial records show that a significant amount of the misappropriated funds was channeled for personal expenditure. Between September 2022 and March 2024, at least 1100 purchases amounting to nearly $50,000 were made from Amazon using the company’s bank account.

Additionally, over $20,000 was spent at numerous storefronts, including popular retailers like Temu, Etsy, JC Penney, TJ Maxx, Ross, Marshalls, Scentsy, Plato’s Closet, Nordstrom, Kohl’s, and Burlington. It’s believed that Jody Whitworth, in particular, used customer deposits for these personal purchases.

Action Throughout the Course

The court’s temporary restraining order has barred the defendants from operating Legend Windows while investigations and legal proceedings continue. A preliminary injunction hearing is set for July 8, 2024. During this period, the defendants’ assets will remain frozen.

By their count, the state alleges 42 violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act and over 40 known victims spread all across Alabama. Trials will attempt to resolve claims amounting to $181,042.80 in damages that Legend Windows allegedly owes its clients.

Wide Search for More Victims

Attorney General Steve Marshall has expressed that there may be more victims yet to be identified. A survey has been set up on the Attorney General’s official website to locate these potential victims. People who have had similarly negative encounters with Legend Windows are encouraged to share their experiences via the survey.

If the court finds evidence of illegal activity, it may impose civil penalties, grant restitution to victims, close Legend Windows permanently, and ban the individual defendants from operating in the general contracting industry in Alabama.