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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA RECORD

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Plaintiff Trustee Alleges Fraud Against Nonprofit Corporation Over Property Fees

State Court
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Michael Goland has filed a lawsuit against several organizations, alleging fraudulent claims and seeking declaratory relief. The complaint was filed in the Superior Court of California for Ventura County on October 16, 2024, naming Las Casitas Homeowners Association, RMP Services, Inc., and Chicago Title Company as defendants.

The case revolves around a property located at 629 Paseo La Perla in Thousand Oaks, California. Michael Goland is acting as the trustee of the Samuel Coleman Shore Trust. The property was initially acquired by Samuel Coleman Shore and his father Manly Moses Shore. After Manly's death in November 2022, Sam became the sole owner until he passed away in April 2024. Before his death, Sam granted power of attorney to Goland and established a trust with Goland as trustee.

Goland's complaint alleges that the Las Casitas Homeowners Association (HOA) falsely claimed that the property was part of their association and thus subject to homeowner fees. He argues that the legal descriptions provided by the HOA do not include Lot 50, where the property is located. Despite this discrepancy, RMP Services demanded payment for association dues on behalf of the HOA.

The dispute escalated when Goland attempted to sell the property. During escrow proceedings in July 2024, RMP Services placed a lien on the property for approximately $7,500 due to unpaid dues. Escrow closed in September 2024 with $15,000 reserved to address outstanding claims against the property. This amount was transferred to Chicago Title Company.

Goland seeks a judicial declaration confirming that his property is not part of the HOA and therefore not liable for any dues or fees claimed by them. He also demands repayment of all previously paid association fees with interest and penalties totaling no less than $30,000. Additionally, he requests that Chicago Title release $7,500 held in escrow back to him and hold any remaining funds in trust pending further court decisions.

Representing Goland is attorney Michael N. Sofris from Action Legal Team based in Beverly Hills. The case is presided over by Judge Brenda L. McCormick under Case No: 2024C LI FROS1770.

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