Suit Seeks Restitution From Defunct O.C. Travel Agency
Orange County prosecutors have filed a civil lawsuit against the former operators of a defunct travel firm, alleging that they refused to refund membership fees after promises of reduced rates went unfulfilled.
The suit, which seeks $300,000 in restitution, penalties and costs, names Travel Plus Ltd., general partner Edward J. Brown, Candy Martin and Michael Rosenthal. None of the defendants could be reached for comment.
The lawsuit, filed in Orange County Superior Court late last week, accuses the company and the individuals of engaging in unfair business practices by refusing to refund fees when the company failed to deliver on its promises.
The Newport Beach company sold memberships that offered buyers reduced travel and accommodation rates, computer software and classes on how to become travel agents. The company, which collected $1,500 to $2,500 for membership fees, closed in 1995 after only a year in business.
Deputy Dist. Atty. Andrea L. Burke said the defendants have refused to settle the civil charges, mainly because they disagree with prosecutors about the amount owed.
Travel Plus Ltd. is not affiliated with or related to Travel Plus in Anaheim, which its manager, Waseem Kaiser, said is a standard travel agency that has been in business for four years.
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