Can I ask a stupid question?
With these go fund me type sites, is there no restriction or accountability for how they spend the money?
Supposedly they were raising money for legal defense. Is there no requirement that the funds be spent on legal defense? They are free to just go buy a house with the money?
I think GoFundMe can shut down an account that isn’t using the donations properly.
I believe so. The IRS may have other, ideas though.............
Possible Fraud lawsuit, but it would be weak. There is no contract involved between donors and the recipients. However, there may be some kind of contractual obligation between the fund organizer(s) and the fund me sites. As it stands for the donors & recipients, the funds are a gift, which means no strings attached. Only real obligation I see is that the funds have to go to the recipient, not the fund organizer.
Looked at the GiveSendGo online and it’s there still. I thought it was gone, but the GoFundMe is the one that got pulled. It doesn’t mention legal fees, just general support.
https://www.givesendgo.com/HelpKarmelo
“This is the Official Support Fund for Karmelo and his family during this challenging and difficult time.
The narrative being spread is false, unjust, and harmful. As a family of faith, we are deeply grateful for all of your support during this trying period. Your prayers and assistance mean more to us now more than ever.
- The Anthony Family”
Looks to be within bounds of the GiveSendGo page. But I couldn’t see the GoFundMe page since it’s gone.
I would think if you donated and thought the money was not for the purpose stated, it would be up to a contributor to challenge it.