In a significant legal development, the ongoing lawsuit against WiFi Money, a Sarasota-based business firm, will proceed but not as a class action, despite involving over 50 plaintiffs. Circuit Judge Hunter Carroll emphasized the necessity for strict adherence to court orders, stating that compliance is “not optional” moving forward.

Background of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit centers on allegations of civil fraud and conspiracy against WiFi Money. Plaintiffs claim the company made improper investment promises related to online shops, leading to substantial financial losses. Many were reportedly encouraged to open credit cards, investing up to $72,000 each, with the expectation of significant returns that never materialized.

Mediation Delays and Court’s Stance

A mediation session was initially scheduled for June of the previous year. However, this session did not occur, leading Judge Carroll to express concerns over the missed deadline. While both parties avoided sanctions for this oversight, the judge underscored that future compliance with court orders is mandatory.

Class Action Status Denied

Despite the large number of plaintiffs, Judge Carroll ruled that the case would not proceed as a class action. He noted that the plaintiffs appeared to be treating the lawsuit as a class action without proper authorization, emphasizing the need for each claim to be addressed individually.

Defendants’ Position

WiFi Money and its legal representatives contend that the investments in question were promoted by a separate entity, DBC Limited Inc., which has since ceased operations. They also allege a conflict of interest, pointing out that one of the plaintiffs, Christopher Costello, was involved in setting up the investments and shares legal representation with other plaintiffs.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

The lawsuit, which began in 2023 with approximately 30 plaintiffs and has since grown to over 50, will continue with its current structure. Judge Carroll mentioned the possibility of separating the cases to manage individual claims more effectively but decided to keep them consolidated due to allegations of racketeering and civil conspiracy. A case management hearing is scheduled for March 3, where a trial date is expected to be set, potentially in January of the following year.

Implications for Plaintiffs and Defendants

The decision to proceed without class action status means each plaintiff will need to present their case individually. This approach could impact the legal strategies of both parties and may influence the timeline and complexity of the proceedings.

Broader Context

This case is part of a series of legal challenges faced by WiFi Money. Notably, the Nebraska Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging deceptive practices that led to significant financial losses for consumers. These developments highlight the increasing scrutiny of business practices related to online investment schemes.

Conclusion

As the lawsuit against WiFi Money progresses, the court’s emphasis on strict compliance and the decision against class action status will shape the trajectory of the case. Both plaintiffs and defendants must prepare for a complex legal battle addressing each claim on its merits.