HOUSTON — A temporary injunction was granted after a federal investigation into Texas-based company, Surrogacy Escrow Account Management (SEAM). The company's owner didn't show up to court, but her business partner did.
"She told me there were some issues with some of the funds, and for me, doing the right thing was making sure that she owned and was accountable," said Anthony Hall.
Hall was named as the business partner of Dominique Side, the owner of SEAM. The company is based in Houston. The FBI is currently investigating the company after it was accused of mismanaging millions of dollars meant for parents to pay their surrogates.
ABC10 introduced you to the Kettmans in Fair Oaks. They're expecting a baby boy in October and don't have access to the $45,000 they put into their SEAM account to pay their surrogate.
"(We're) now trying to figure out month to month of trying to pay her and what we're gonna do when the hospital bills come. It's scary," said Katelyn Kettman.
The Kettmans are one of many couples who have lost thousands. Houston-based attorney Marianne Robak is representing 24 families totaling more than $1 million in their own losses. Robak believes the number is much higher and her team is narrowing down how some of their money was spent.
"$4.9 million that have been used to pay for credit card bills of a company owned by Dominique Side and her business partner, Anthony Hall. That business is called Vgn Bae Studios, which is a music studio here in Houston that is promoted for R&B, and I guess rap music here in Houston," said Robak.
A judge granted a temporary injunction during this week's court hearing.
"Whatever assets we've been able to track thus far are now frozen through trial," said Robak.
Side did not appear in court, but Hall provided ABC10 with this statement:
"The last few weeks have been difficult. A lot has been stated publicly, and through the news media. I made the choice to hold any comments until I could have the chance to speak in court. I am happy with the outcome of the hearing. I was able to give insight as to my involvement and knowledge of the concerns of many with documentation, and truth.
I refuse to battle private matters publicly, and have always asked for fairness with this process. The hearing was the first time I felt treated that way. After receiving harassing messages, threats, the destruction of my remaining business, and my name I was able to speak openly and be heard fairly. I would like to thank the opposing attorneys, and judge for that chance. I defended myself and this resulted in my finances being released back to me, and I have agreed to turn over specific assets I control that can be traced to the alleged mismanagement by Ms. Side. I have taken sole ownership of the business so I have to be the one to make that a reality. I made a promise to do that. I want what’s right to be done for anyone affected, and that has been my resolve from the start despite what has been stated. I remain named in the suit until that agreement has been fulfilled.
Life Escrow was not a front for illegal activity it was actually a company started as a passion project solely of mine in March of 2023, not 2024, proven by the records turned in by the opposing counsel themselves. It has no financial accounts, or clients, and has never received any amount of money at all. I also presented a sworn affidavit from Ms. Side that’s states I have no insight or access to any of the funds or, processes of SEAM. Also it states that no monies have been transferred to me fraudulently. Also I was able to speak to my hard work and dedication to Vgn Bae. Myself and those who worked there were passionate and hardworking. I assisted in anyway that I could to provide clarity and insight by taking the stand and answering any questions to the best of my knowledge.
This in no way means that there may not be other suits filed with me mentioned as there are many people affected. I hope this hearing sets precedent for my resolve and willingness to do the right thing. This is just a step in the right direction. I’d hope that in the future I am asked to assist rather than to be sued, and smeared in the news. I want what’s right for everyone."
WATCH THE ORIGINAL REPORT: Fair Oaks couple accuse Texas-based company of stealing money meant to pay their surrogate
