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CFPB v. GST Factoring, Inc.; Champion Marketing Solutions, LLC; Rick Graff; Gregory Trimarche; Scott Freda; Amanda Johanson; David Mize; Jacob Slaughter; and Daniel Ruggiero

The Bureau alleged that the defendants violated the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) by charging upfront fees.

In July 2020, the Bureau filed a complaint in the federal district court for the Central District of California against GST Factoring, Inc., Champion Marketing Solutions, Gregory Trimarche, Rick Graff, Scott Freda, Amanda Johanson, David Mize, Jacob Slaughter, and Daniel Ruggiero. The defendants were part of an operation that used telemarketing to offer debt-relief services provided by attorneys to consumers with private student loan debt from 2015 through 2020. The Bureau's complaint alleged that the defendants violated the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) by charging upfront fees.

Victim compensation

In March 2023 the CFPB began mailing checks to eligible consumers. This matter is now closed.

The CFPB contracted with RUST Consulting to administer payments for this case and to answer questions from consumers. This matter is now closed

Important dates

March 2023 – May 2026: Distribution

More information about the case

Read the court order

Read the press release


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