Attorney General James Uthmeier has initiated legal action against RAD Diversified REIT, Inc., its subsidiaries, and owners Brandon “Dutch” Mendenhall and Amy Vaughn. The subpoenas were issued following allegations that the company and its owners have potentially violated Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
Mendenhall and Vaughn, known for their online presence promoting real estate investment seminars, are accused of misleading investors. “Our office has received complaints that a popular internet duo selling real estate investment services through their fund is pocketing cash instead of buying properties as advertised,” stated Attorney General Uthmeier. He further remarked on the situation by saying, “This appears to be a Ponzi scheme, and with several individuals claiming they’ve been exploited, we are investigating to ensure Floridians are not being deceived by greedy fraudsters.”
The seminars hosted by Mendenhall and Vaughn advertise RAD Diversified REIT as an accessible real estate investment option for those unable to purchase property outright. However, numerous investors have reported difficulties in obtaining returns or retrieving their investments due to alleged obstructions by the duo. The investigation aims to uncover whether RAD Diversified REIT possesses real estate assets equivalent to the investments made.
The subpoenas demand various documents including communications with customers, marketing materials, financial records, customer complaints, and more. These documents must be provided by July 18, 2025.
Special Counsel Ellen Lyons and Senior Assistant Attorney General Miles Vaughn are managing the case.
