Author: Danielle Antosz

This LA building is being taken over by squatters, crime, vandalism, even fires. Owner has spent $100K on repairs — but the city hasn’t acted. Here’s what she’s up against in California
The owner of a commercial building in Huntington Park, California, says she’s been battling squatters for years — and she’s had enough.
Dr. Tahani Soliman, who owns an office near Rugby and Slauson avenues, says trespassers have repeatedly caused fires, stolen utilities and stripped rooftop air conditioning units. Despite spending thousands on repairs and security, she says local authorities have done little to help.
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“It’s misery,” Soliman told KTLA 5. “I don’t deserve that.”
Gaby Rodriguez, who works with Soliman, said the most recent incident involved a fire set by squatters living on the roof of the adjacent building. Fire crews put it out, but she said it’s just the latest in a string of dangerous episodes.
In 2023, firefighters responded to another rooftop fire at the vacant parking structure next door. They found people living in tents, allegedly tapping into Soliman’s electricity and water.
Squatters keep coming back
Soliman said she’s tried again and again to secure the property. She’s put up fencing to block access from the neighboring roof, added barbed wire and even caged her AC units. But each time, she said, squatters tear it all down.
“We ended up putting a fence up — they pulled that down. Then we caged our AC units — they took that down, too,” Rodriguez told KTLA 5.
The trespassers have reportedly stripped rooftop equipment for parts and left behind damage that Soliman said has cost her nearly $100,000. She’s had to replace the entire roof and is even considering early retirement to save money.
Soliman said she’s contacted police and city officials several times, but received little support.
“I told them we have a building here empty, breeding homeless, do something about it,” Soliman said. “[The city said] ‘Oh, we’ll see, we’ll see.’”
KTLA 5 reports that the City of Huntington Park said it would look into the matter, but so far no action has been confirmed.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
A growing issue across California
Cases like Soliman’s are increasingly common across California, where housing insecurity and homelessness have reached crisis levels. A growing number of tenants have reportedly stopped paying rent and transitioned into squatters — a situation that leaves property owners stuck in legal limbo.
“The squatter problem isn’t getting better here,” Alex Capozzolo of SD House Guys told CBS 4. “We’ve had multiple rental properties have tenants stop paying and start squatting. It’s not always easy getting them out.”
Capozzolo estimated that California landlords typically spend between $5,000 and $12,000 in legal fees just to begin the eviction process.
Despite the cost, California law makes it difficult for property owners to remove squatters quickly — even in cases involving damage or safety risks.
A recent bill, AB 897, would have required squatters to show documentation proving their right to occupy a property. It was pulled following opposition.
According to The Center Square, opponents feared the bill could criminalize homelessness or wrongful evictions, though supporters argued it would protect landlords from dangerous situations like Soliman’s.
“Rather than addressing the root causes of our state’s housing crisis, AB 897 would accelerate pathways into homelessness,” said Housing California. “Landlords and tenants currently have access to civil eviction processes designed to address unauthorized occupancy.”
Under current law, squatters can sometimes establish legal occupancy if the owner doesn’t act fast — especially in places like Los Angeles County, where enforcement resources are stretched thin and homelessness remains widespread.
How to protect your property
California property owners dealing with squatters have limited options. Still, there are steps they can take:
- Act quickly: The longer someone stays, the harder it is to remove them. File a police report and start the eviction process immediately.
- Secure your property: Install fencing, cameras and motion lights. Make sure doors and windows are locked. Regularly inspect vacant buildings.
- Document everything: Take photos of damage, theft or unauthorized entry. Surveillance footage can help you in court or with law enforcement.
- Get professional help: Consult a real estate attorney familiar with California’s landlord-tenant laws. Some cases may qualify for an unlawful detainer lawsuit.
- Know your rights: While police may not remove squatters without a court order, they can intervene in cases involving trespassing, utility theft or fire hazards.
Though Soliman hopes the city will step up soon, her story highlights a deeper issue: California’s squatter laws leave property owners with few options — even when public safety is at risk.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
A Massive 25-foot sinkhole swallowed a California construction site, damaging vehicles and a nearby property — here are your options if a ‘shoring failure’ ever lands at your doorstep
A massive sinkhole that opened up in Ventura, California, has damaged several vehicles, forced officials to red-tag a nearby property and left residents questioning the safety of local construction sites.
The 25-foot hole appeared in late May near Thompson Boulevard and East Front Street at a construction site for a new apartment complex. While it initially looked like a natural sinkhole, city officials later said it was caused by a "shoring failure" — when a part of the support system buckles under nearby weight.
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An Instagram post by the community group Ventura Forward suggested that a combination of infrastructure overload and aggressive water pumping may have caused the damage.
“A water well was discovered during construction and the digging didn’t stop,” the Instagram post read. “Massive amounts of water have been pumped off location since construction started weeks ago.”
Are residents in danger?
Photos and aerial footage from the scene showed two pickup trucks on fractured pavement, both sinking into the hole. Another vehicle appeared to teeter on the edge, and a nearby storage unit was at risk as a fence warped under the stress.
No injuries were reported, and officials say nearby homes are not in immediate danger. Still, the incident has left residents on edge.
“They didn’t shore up the foundation, and they dug a hole and it collapsed. Dumb,” Ventura resident Woody Maxwell told KTLA. “Considering the stuff they can fix, I’m sure they can fix this. It’s just going to cost time and money.”
The adjacent property has been red-tagged, which means it’s unsafe and uninhabitable until further notice.
"City staff are working closely with construction engineers to evaluate the situation and determine appropriate repairs and potential temporary measures to prevent further damage,” city officials said in a statement. “There is no current threat to life safety, and the City is committed to keeping as many businesses open and operational as possible during this time."
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
What are your options if this happens to you?
In California, if your vehicle or property is damaged by a construction-related failure, such as an improperly supported foundation, you may be able to take legal action or file an insurance claim. Here’s what to consider:
Sue for negligence
If a contractor ignored building codes, skipped safety protocols or caused preventable damage, you may have grounds for a negligence lawsuit. Under California law, property owners can seek compensation for:
- Property damage
- Loss of use
- Repair or replacement costs
- Diminished property value
To succeed, you’ll need to show the contractor had a duty of care, breached that duty and caused the damage. A construction defect attorney can help gather evidence and file a claim.
File an insurance claim
If you have homeowners or commercial property insurance, your policy may cover damage from ground movement. But some policies exclude damage from earth movement or man-made excavation collapse. Check the fine print.
Auto insurance may cover parked vehicle damage, depending on whether you have comprehensive coverage. If the construction company is found liable, your insurer may seek reimbursement through a process called subrogation.
Filing an insurance claim is usually faster than taking legal action, but a lawsuit might recover more, especially for uncovered losses.
Which path is better?
Insurance is a good first step for fast recovery, especially if you need immediate repairs. Legal action might be necessary if your insurer denies the claim, the damages exceed your coverage or you want to hold someone accountable.
Whichever route you take, document everything:
- Take photos of the damage
- Gather witness statements
- Save repair estimates and receipts
- Request red-tag documentation from the city
Being thorough helps strengthen both insurance claims and legal cases.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
New York woman was about to get scammed out of $408,000 in gold bars — then this local angel saved her nest egg just in time. How it all went down and how to avoid a similar ordeal
A single phone call happened to save a Rochester woman more than $400,000.
Mike DeMarino, the owner of Med City Coin & Bullion, became suspicious when a woman called requesting to purchase hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of gold.
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“She said that she wanted to buy about $400,000 in gold,” DeMarino told KTTC. “She wanted 10 oz. bars of gold, which is a big chunk. I said, ‘that’s kind of not the right way to do it.’”
That request immediately raised red flags for DeMarino. When the woman, who asked not to be named, mentioned she was acting on the advice of someone helping her with a “Microsoft issue,” DeMarino’s concern quickly turned into alarm. He immediately called the police and the authorities arrived at the woman’s home before any money or gold changed hands.
“If it wasn’t for a team effort, honestly, this young lady probably would have lost half a million dollars,” said DeMarino.
‘He had me like a prisoner’
The scam began with a pop-up window on the woman’s computer as she was browsing on Facebook. The pop-up claimed the woman’s computer had been disabled due to suspicious activity and instructed her to call a number that appeared to be a Microsoft support line.
"It said, ‘Temporarily disabled your computer for suspicious activity,’" the woman shared with KTTC.
After the woman called the phone number on the pop-up, the scammers began to establish a disturbing routine — the fake tech support agent began calling her twice a day to establish control and create a sense of fear.
“He had me like a prisoner,” said the woman. “He had set it up that he would call every morning at 10 a.m. and afternoon at 3 p.m.”
The scam escalated when a second fraudster posing as a banker at her financial institution joined the scheme, telling the woman that her financial assets were in danger. After a series of escalations — at one point, the woman says, she was told the Federal Reserve and Social Security Administration would be intervening in her case — the woman was convinced to invest in gold to protect herself and her money.
Under their direction, she contacted Med City Coin & Bullion to purchase $408,000 worth of 10-ounce gold bars. That’s when DeMarino intervened.
As the woman described the situation, DeMarino realized she was being told exactly how much gold to buy and was even warned not to tell her family. That secrecy, paired with the mention of Microsoft, was enough for him to assume the woman on the phone was being scammed.
DeMarino and local law enforcement were able to intervene just in the nick of time.
“The tears started rolling,” the woman said. “I was so relieved I had the detective there.”
DeMarino and the anonymous woman are now sharing her story in the hopes that it will prevent others from falling for elaborate scams such as this.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
How to protect yourself from similar scams
Tech-support scams often begin with a robocall, an email in your inbox or a pop-up on your computer, as was the case with this anonymous woman. In many cases, the scammers appear to be official and may even claim to be part of law enforcement.
Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself from getting scammed:
- Never dial numbers from pop-ups: Companies like Microsoft, Apple and Google will never contact you with a pop-up and ask you to call them in order to fix a tech issue.
- Don’t download anything from strangers: Remote access software tools like AnyDesk or TeamViewer can give scammers full access to your device. Do not let a stranger persuade you into downloading anything.
- Be suspicious of urgency and secrecy: If someone tells you to act fast and not speak to anyone, that’s a huge red flag.
- Verify independently: If someone claims to be from your bank or a government agency, hang up and call the institution directly using a number from their official website.
Scammers often target older adults, particularly those living alone. If you have older loved ones, try to ensure they understand the signs of these scams and check in with them frequently. For especially vulnerable adults, consider setting up a power of attorney or monitoring their accounts so you can quickly spot any fraud.
Most importantly, remind your loved ones that if anyone tells them not to talk to their family or friends, that’s a significant red flag. This woman’s willingness to tell the store owner what was happening — and his quick thinking — saved her hundreds of thousands of dollars.
If you believe you’ve become a victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement agency immediately. They can provide assistance and help you take steps to protect your devices and your finances.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
My dad just died and I found out he cut all 3 of his other kids out of his will for ‘betraying’ him — I feel guilty keeping everything and my siblings are furious. What should I do?
The death of a loved one can be devastating for a family, but when a disputed will quickly follows the funeral, the grieving process often turns into a bitter dispute.
Case in point: the Levitt family. Caroline Levitt, a 29-year-old woman who is grieving the loss of her father, has been grappling with backlash from her three older siblings after learning she was the sole beneficiary of their father’s estate.
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After years of being the only child to maintain contact and care for their aging, emotionally distant dad, Caroline was stunned to discover her father had left her everything: the house, the car and over $300,000 in savings.
Her siblings assumed she’d divide the estate equally, but when Caroline refused, she found out why her siblings had lost contact with their dad. One had borrowed money from him and never repaid it. Another cut the father off when dad refused to co-sign a loan, and the third forged their dad’s signature on an insurance document.
One sibling has hinted at taking legal action to get their fair share, but dropped that idea after seeing the paperwork. Now, Caroline’s caught between guilt and loyalty, wondering if honoring her dad’s final decision makes her selfish.
Should Caroline share the inheritance?
There are two things for Caroline to consider here — one legal and one ethical. Legally, if someone leaves behind a valid will, that document typically determines who inherits what. And since the father updated his will and named his youngest daughter as the sole beneficiary, the law is likely on Caroline’s side.
There are a few cases where wills can be contested, which can vary by state. In general, a will can be contested if:
- The person who passed away lacked the mental capacity to sign the will. For example, if they were very ill or suffered from dementia when the will was signed.
- The person was under duress or tricked into signing the will — for example, if they thought they were signing a different document.
- There is suspicion that the signature was forged.
- Another will exists, especially if the other will is newer. In most cases, the most recent will is the only one that is valid.
Based on the siblings dropping the idea of legal action after seeing the paperwork, Caroline is likely in the clear, legally speaking. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with an estate or probate lawyer to cover your bases when an inheritance is questioned.
Now for the ethical side: should Caroline share her inheritance because it’s the right thing to do? While this is a personal decision, try putting yourself in her father’s shoes — say you wrote a will leaving your favorite niece your estate and left out her brother, who was rude and even stole money from you. Would you want your nephew to get a share of your estate? Probably not.
Caroline’s father made his final wishes clear, and she can honor his wishes by simply following them. Of course, Caroline must consider what keeping the inheritance will do to her relationship with her siblings. If she refuses to share the inheritance, Caroline’s relationship with her siblings will likely be strained, if not completely severed. That is a tough decision that only she can make.
It’s also worth considering the financial implications of Caroline splitting the inheritance. To split the value of the house and car, she’ll need to sell these items. Depending on Caroline’s current living situation, she may decide that living in the inherited house is what’s best for her financially.
As you can see, there’s a lot for Caroline to consider as she mulls over what to do with her inheritance.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
How to navigate finances after an inheritance
Coming into an unexpected inheritance, especially one tied to complicated family dynamics, can be emotionally draining. But it’s important to take a step back and approach the financial side with a clear head. Here’s how to navigate the financial side of an inheritance.
Wait before making big financial decisions
The first rule of inheritance planning? Don’t rush. Wait a few months before making any major decisions, like quitting your job, investing a large sum or giving money to others. Emotions can cloud judgment, and grief can lead to impulse spending.
Secure the funds and understand what you’ve inherited
Before you do anything else, make sure the estate has cleared probate and that you legally have access to the funds and/or property. Also, check for any unpaid debts or taxes attached to the estate. In most cases, the estate, not the beneficiary, is responsible for those, but it’s important to confirm.
Once the estate is settled, consider placing the money in a high-yield savings account or a short-term certificate of deposit (CD).
Talk to a financial advisor or tax professional
Inheritances can come with unexpected tax implications, especially if they include investment accounts or rental property. An advisor can help you reduce your tax burden and make a plan for the funds. Look for a fiduciary financial advisor — someone legally required to act in your best interest.
Decide what to do with inherited property
If you’ve inherited a home, you’ll need to decide whether you want to live in it, rent it or sell it. Consider the cost of taxes and maintaining the home. Home insurance rates are on the rise, and all of these costs might set you back more than you realize.
There’s also the emotional aspect to consider — if you have good memories, you might want to keep the home. But if you have negative feelings about the house, or maybe its location, it might make sense to sell.
Set boundaries with family
If other relatives feel they were “cut out” of the estate, tensions can rise. You may be under no legal obligation to share the inheritance, but if you choose to, do it intentionally and not out of guilt. Set clear boundaries about what you are or aren’t willing to give, and avoid getting pressured into giving more than you’re comfortable with.
Inherited money can be a powerful tool for reaching financial goals — if you manage it wisely. Take your time, get expert advice and make choices that support your long-term goals.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
‘This is our lifeline’: Las Vegas seniors with mobility issues say a broken elevator in their building left them stranded in their units for more than a week — what to do if it happens to you
Residents at Harmony Senior Apartments in Las Vegas say they were effectively trapped in their homes for more than a week after the only working elevator in one of the buildings broke down. Many use walkers or wheelchairs and say that without the elevator, it’s impossible to manage basic daily tasks.
“This is our lifeline for people like myself who are wheelchair-bound,” resident Michael Strickland told KLAS. “It’s a senior community, and we have so many people in this building who are mobility-impaired.”
What options do these residents have? Here are the legal options if you or someone you love faces similar issues.
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The elevator issues have been going on for months, residents say
Some residents told 8 News Now that the broken elevator has made it difficult to complete day-to-day activities like picking up groceries, doing laundry or making it to medical appointments.
Nancy Smith, who lives on the top floor, said she had to cancel physical therapy. “I’ve got my mobility issue with my hip,” she explained.
Smith says even when she has groceries delivered to the apartment complex, she can’t get down to the ground floor to pick them up. She was told maintenance could not assist her.
Harmony Senior Apartments residents say this isn’t the first time. Strickland told reporters the elevator has gone out multiple times since he moved in. After calling the apartment management to complain, he was advised not to use the elevator, even after it began operating again.
“Yes, it is working, but they say don’t use it because it’s not safe,” he said. "You could get trapped."
While a technician was seen working on the elevator during a KLAS site visit, property management declined to comment on the outage or timeline for repairs.
Senior residents like Smith and Strickland aren’t facing a simple inconvenience — the lack of elevator access is life-altering. In addition to missing critical medical appointments, residents are unable to pick up their food deliveries, access the outdoors or escape the building if a fire or other dangerous situation arises.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
What to do if you face a similar issue
Under the Nevada building code, multifamily residential buildings must comply with accessibility standards set by Chapter 11 of the International Building Code. That includes maintaining an accessible route, such as a working elevator, for residents with disabilities.
Tenants also have protections under federal law. The Fair Housing Act requires landlords to provide reasonable accommodations to residents with disabilities, including ensuring they can enter and exit their homes safely. If that route becomes inaccessible, landlords must act swiftly to resolve the issue or provide an alternative.
If you’re dealing with a similar problem:
- Document everything: Take photos, save emails, and keep a written log of issues and attempts to get help.
- Submit a formal complaint to management: Put requests in writing and ask for a timeline on repairs.
- Call your local code enforcement or housing authority: In Las Vegas, this may include the Building & Safety Department or the Office of Fair Housing.
- File a complaint with HUD: If management fails to provide a reasonable accommodation, file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
- Seek legal aid: Local nonprofits or legal clinics may be able to assist tenants facing unsafe or inaccessible conditions.
For residents like Strickland and Smith, a working elevator isn’t just a convenience — it’s a necessity. If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, don’t wait for management to act.
Call your local code enforcement, file a formal complaint with HUD, and if people are physically unable to exit the building, consider contacting the fire department. They can perform wellness checks and, in some cases, push for management to take emergency actions.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
‘It’s a living nightmare’: Michigan renters say they’ve endured water shut-offs for months — and even when it’s on, it’s not safe to drink. And then their water bills spiked inexplicably
Residents in a Riverview, Michigan apartment complex say they’ve been living without reliable running water for months.
“It’s affecting our everyday lives … and causing major stress,” Robert Bangs, a Huntington House Apartments resident told WXYC 7 News.
“Can we go home and take a shower? Can we use water? And they even did it on Christmas.”
When the water is working, it’s often brown, filled with sediment and unsafe to drink, reports WXYC 7 News.
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Bangs and his girlfriend, cancer survivor Dawn Sample, say the situation has gone from frustrating to what they now describe as “a living nightmare.” Multiple residents have reported that low water pressure, discolored water and lengthy water shut-offs have become a regular part of their weekly routine.
Here’s what they’ve been facing — and what you can do if you’re faced with a similar situation.
‘It’s just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you can’t’
The issues started in July 2024, says Bangs, after Essential Property Management took over the 129-unit complex. Since then, he says the water has sometimes been shut off with no warning.
Starting March 5, residents were told the water would be turned off every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bangs says it often stays off until after 6 p.m.
To deal with the shut-offs, the management company provided two porta-potties for residents to use. But Bangs says that’s not a real solution, especially for his partner, who has a compromised immune system after being treated for cancer.
Adding to their frustration, the couple’s water and sewer bill spiked to around $90 a month, even with days when there was no water at all.
“That makes no sense,” Bangs said. “Don’t make people pay for water when you’re cutting it off on them.”
Determined to get answers, he gathered signatures for a petition, requested master water bills from the city and tried to contact Essential Property Management. But at one point, the company’s phone number was disconnected.
That’s when Bangs contacted WXYZ. After reporters got involved, the company restored its phone service and issued a statement.
“All repairs have been appropriately permitted through the City’s building department and have been undertaken incrementally, with advance notice and controlled, short-term water shutoffs provided to residents. We are pleased to be making these necessary improvements, especially given our involvement with this property only began in July 2024,” said CEO Todd Rodgers in the statement.
Rodgers also said residents are billed based on actual water usage from city records, and encouraged tenants to contact management with any concerns.
Bangs says the response doesn’t go far enough. He believes residents should be reimbursed for the days they couldn’t use water, and that filters should have been provided to help deal with the discolored supply.
“It’s just a shame when you try to live your normal life and you can’t,” he said.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
Facing a similar struggle? Here’s what to do
Under Michigan’s Housing Law (MCL 125.472), landlords are legally required to provide running water at all times. The law mandates that every unit have at least one sink with a continuous water supply and that the building be equipped to distribute that water day and night. Long-term or repeated shut-offs may violate this law, even if repairs are underway.
Here’s what tenants can do if they’re facing a similar issue:
- Document everything. Take photos or videos of discolored water, sediment, or lack of pressure. Keep copies of any written notices, bills, or communication from management.
- File a complaint with local officials. In Michigan, residents can contact their local building or code enforcement office. They may conduct an inspection and cite the landlord for violations.
- Contact a tenants’ rights organization or legal aid. Groups like Michigan Legal Help or Lakeshore Legal Aid can help you understand your rights and offer assistance with drafting formal complaints or legal actions.
- Withhold rent — but only legally. In some cases, tenants may be allowed to withhold rent until critical repairs are made, but this must be done by the law. Speak to a legal advisor before taking this step.
- Ask about reimbursement. If you’ve paid for a utility that wasn’t functional, you may be able to request reimbursement or a rent reduction. Again, documentation and communication are key.
- Consider going public if needed. As Bangs did, media attention can sometimes push property managers to act faster, especially if other channels fail.
Safe, running water isn’t a luxury — it’s a basic human right. If landlords don’t provide it, residents have a right to speak up and seek support.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 30, 2025
UPS told California man his son’s guitar was destroyed in a wildfire — then he found it for sale online and drove 7 hours to get it back. How to protect your stuff when shopping online
Tony Diaz purchased a rare guitar for his son, but when the package never arrived and UPS claimed it was lost, Diaz wasn’t buying it.
UPS actually offered several explanations for why the guitar didn’t arrive, including a claim that it was destroyed in the recent Southern California wildfires, but Diaz was unconvinced.
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"I just had an intuition that the guitar was stolen and that it wasn’t damaged and destroyed," Diaz, who lives in Hayward, California, shared with ABC7 News.
His hunch paid off. After searching online, Diaz spotted the exact guitar for sale on Guitar Center’s website, identified by its unique serial number. Adam Hulsey, who sold the guitar to Diaz, immediately “snatched it up” before Diaz made the roughly seven-hour round trip to Bakersfield to retrieve it.
"It was 3.5 hours to get up there and it was 4 hours to get back," said Diaz. “Was it worth it? Yeah, it was absolutely worth it.”
When this dedicated dad couldn’t get UPS to own up to its mistake, Hulsey and Diaz contacted ABC7’s investigative unit, 7 On Your Side. Reporter Melanie Woodrow reached out to a UPS security supervisor, who claimed the guitar had been stolen but said the company couldn’t reimburse Hulsey for more than the insured value.
After additional conversations, UPS eventually agreed to revisit the case.
‘So many different stories’
Diaz ordered the Dean Dime Slime guitar — a signature model from “Dimebag” Darrell Abbott, former guitar player for the metal band Pantera — from Hulsey, who manages a small shop called Adam’s Guitar Addict in Denison, Texas. Hulsey reportedly shipped three guitars that Diaz had purchased at the same time, but only two arrived.
When Hulsey contacted UPS to track down the missing guitar, he got a series of conflicting stories.
"Burned up in a California wildfire, fell off a truck, fell off a train. So many different stories," said Hulsey.
UPS eventually told Hulsey the package was severely damaged during shipping and was discarded. The shipping company did send Hulsey some compensation, but only based on the declared value at the time of shipping, which wasn’t enough.
After recovering the guitar, which now has a dent and a visible scratch on the back, Diaz and Hulsey filed a police report and contacted UPS again, but the call reportedly didn’t go well.
"UPS was kind of — ‘hey why are you calling with this tracking number, this is already a closed case. The guitar was damaged and destroyed,’ and I told them on the phone — well, that’s so funny that the guitar was damaged and destroyed because I just bought it from Guitar Center and I have it in my car with me,” said Diaz.
Now, with the help of 7 On Your Side, the lime green electric guitar is where it belongs — in the hands of Damian Diaz, Tony’s 16-year-old son.
"It’s a nice guitar. I like its tone a lot," said the boy as he played his new guitar in front of the ABC7 camera crew.
In a statement to ABC7, a UPS representative said, "We strive to provide excellent service. We’ve been in contact with the customer and have resolved the situation." Hulsey and Diaz confirmed that they received a larger refund and were finally satisfied with UPS’ response.
But the question remains: why were Hulsey and Diaz given so many different explanations? According to UPS, a “casualty code” was assigned to the shipment and it’s possible that customer service representatives didn’t understand what the code meant.
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Who is legally responsible for a lost package — and how to protect yourself
When a package goes missing during shipping, who’s on the hook depends on the situation and whether the item was insured.
In general:
- The shipper (in this case, Hulsey) is responsible for getting the item to the buyer. If a package is lost or damaged in transit, the seller typically must refund or replace it, regardless of whether the loss was their fault.
- The carrier (like UPS) is liable up to the amount declared or insured at shipping time. If the item wasn’t properly insured, reimbursement may be limited.
This means the buyer may be out of luck when packages are lost or stolen, unless the item is insured or purchased through a platform with strong buyer protections.
So, what can you do to protect yourself when making expensive purchases online? Here are a few tips to safeguard your valuable items, as well as your wallet:
1. Insure high-value items for their full replacement cost. Don’t underreport the value just to save on shipping.
2. Pay attention to your package’s tracking. If the tracking stops or the status seems stuck, contact the seller immediately. The seller can then contact the shipper to get to the bottom of the delayed or missing shipment.
3. Save receipts and documentation. If you need to report a missing package, you’ll need proof of value and proof of shipping.
4. Make sure you buy through reputable platforms that offer protection if something goes wrong during shipment.
5. When shipping, request a signature confirmation on expensive items to prevent theft after delivery.
For Diaz and Hulsey, it took persistence, a long road trip and an investigative news team to resolve what should have been a routine delivery. And while they’re happy the guitar has been given to its rightful owner — blemishes and all — this story is a cautionary tale for anyone shipping or receiving valuable items.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 29, 2025
‘It’s not my fault’: Oakland Chinatown businesses say they’re fed up with the city for fining them thousands after vandals repeatedly graffiti their properties. Now they’re fighting back
Shop owners in Oakland’s Chinatown are fed up with vandals who repeatedly graffiti their stores and with city officials who keep fining them for it. It’s a never-ending cycle: the walls are spray-painted and employees paint over it, only for the tags to reappear.
But the city doesn’t seem to be going after the taggers. Instead, it’s penalizing the victims of the crime — the businesses themselves.
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“We cannot control [it]. We clean up and they come again. So many times, but the city — I don’t know why they are charging me money,” Shirley Luo, manager of Won Kee Supermarket, told ABC7 News Bay Area in a story published April 9. “It’s not my fault. Not our fault.”
A day earlier, Luo tried to pay a recent $500 fine — but the city told her she actually owed $3,000, including late fees, according to the local broadcaster.
Locals are fighting back
Luo’s story isn’t unique. Businesses across the city’s Chinatown say they’re receiving thousands of dollars in fines for not painting over graffiti fast enough.
“We close at 4 o’clock when we go home, and we cannot watch people do things like that. We can’t. So, the city has to help,” Susan Lam, another local business owner, told ABC7 News.
In an effort to help tackle the problem, the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council (OCIC) set up a program to paint over tags it spotted last August, per the broadcaster. It had limited success, but the group isn’t giving up.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
“We are going to continue to go over the taggers and continue to put murals on until we get to a point where we have made significant improvement,” Tony Trinh, the council’s executive director, told ABC7 News.
Businesses also want city officials to take action.
What are business owners asking for?
Shop owners want the city to shift its focus from fining property owners to penalizing vandals.
“The city should go after the taggers. Like they did in Seattle,” Stewart Chen, president of the OCIC board of directors, told ABC7 News. “I won’t say prison or incarceration but at least a fine, so they know there are consequences to their actions. If they just let them come and tag us and leave without any consequences, of course they will come back.”
Seattle has reportedly spent millions of dollars to control its graffiti problem and employs around 15 full-time employees for removal. The city also aims to hold vandals accountable.
U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon echoed the Oakland business community’s frustration and told ABC7 News she’s hopeful newly elected mayor Barbara Lee will do “everything possible to address this policy and others that continue to trouble our business owners. We’ve got to do everything possible to keep businesses stable, to make sure that they are safe and that they can afford to do business in Oakland.”
Back at Won Kee Supermarket, Luo says the city’s current approach isn’t just frustrating — it’s unjust.
“Touch my money. Touch the owner’s money, [it’s] not fair,” she said.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 29, 2025
Florida firefighters rushed to evacuate 60 residents from high-rise after a massive crack was spotted in one of its columns — why the state still faces safety challenges post-Surfside
In early May, construction crews working in the parking garage of South Beach III Condominiums in Clearwater, Florida, spotted a "several‑foot‑wide crack” in a concrete support pillar.
As CBS News reports, they immediately flagged the structural concern, eager to prevent another tragedy like the 2021 condo collapse in Surfside, Florida, which killed 98 people.
Within two hours, firefighters were knocking on doors in the 12‑story tower, hustling roughly  60 residents onto the street with what they could carry.
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“Basically for like two days [I’m] wearing the same clothes until things kind of calmed down,” resident Scott  May told FOX 13.
A week later, engineers installed heavy shoring and declared the column stabilized. Most condo owners were allowed to return to their units — but not those with condos stacked over the column. They were left in limbo.
Even the homeowners who could return had to agree to restrictions: no construction or remodeling without written board approval, no deliveries over 75 pounds, and closed balconies above the damaged pillar.
It’s the latest example of how post-Surfside safety legislation is impacting condo residents..
The impact of Surfside: How one tragedy rewrote Florida laws
When the Champlain Towers South condominium crumbled in Surfside in 2021, it exposed decades‑old gaps in Florida’s building‑safety oversight.
In 2022, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 4-D, also known as the milestone-inspection law. Key points include:
- Mandatory structural reviews: Every condo of three or more stories must undergo a ‘milestone inspection’ by an architect or engineer 30 years after completion, or 25 years if it sits within three miles of the coastline, followed by re‑inspections every 10 years.
- No more reserve waivers: Associations must fully fund reserves for major repairs. Board members who skip or defer funding face personal liability.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
The new rules have already shuttered several condo towers for several years. One high‑profile case is Miami Beach’s Castle  Beach  Club condominum — in which the onsite spa (Russian & Turkish Baths) was forced to close for structural repairs in 2022.
The spa finally reopened after a three-year shutdown that kept portions of the 570-unit building off-limits and saddled owners with steep special assessments.
The U.S. Sun reports that the monthly dues tripled at Winter  Park  Woods near Orlando after the HOA board rushed to meet the new reserve rules under the law.
One condo owner’s monthly HOA fees jumped from $634 to more than $2,100. Some longtime owners were pushed toward foreclosure or fire‑sale listings.
State officials like Rep. Vicki Lopez, who sponsored the bill, insist the cost is worth it.
"We have strived to reach that delicate balance between the safety of our constituents that live in condominiums, as well as understanding the incredible financial impact that sometimes these particular bills that we pass have,” she told WESH News.
What to do if you’re evacuated for structural issues
While you can’t anticipate being forced to evacuate your home for structural reasons, it’s good to have a grounding in the steps to take to make the disruption easier to navigate.
Here’s what to do if you’re forced to leave your home:
- Get documentation. Get, in writing, the official word on why the building is off limits and how long engineers expect repairs to take. Under Florida’s condo law, the condo board must share safety findings with owners and tenants upon request.
- Call your insurance company. Next, contact your homeowners’ insurance company. A standard condo policy often includes Loss‑of‑Use (Additional Living Expense) coverage to reimburse your hotel bills, short‑term rentals and even the cost of boarding pets while your unit is uninhabitable. Make sure to save receipts for boarding, hotel, and food, as your insurance may require these for reimbursement.
- Talk to your lender. Unfortunately, being evacuated from your condo won’t halt your mortgage payments. Contact your lender and inquire about a short-term forbearance or other options that may help you cover the costs of alternative accommodations while repairs are being made. Depending on its policies, you may be able to skip a few months of payments and tack them on to the end of the mortgage term.
- Look for government assistance. Look for programs at the city or county level as federal support may be limited. For example, programs like FEMA generally won’t help, as grants require the federal government to declare a disaster and typically exclude defects discovered before a collapse or storm.
- Document, document, document. If possible, request limited access to your condo to photograph valuables and gather documents, then back up those photos to the cloud. Insurers and lenders may demand proof of condition later. Keep every email, notice, and receipt related to the disruption in one folder — special assessments, hotel invoices, even Uber rides — because you will need those when you file insurance claims, request fee waivers or seek tax relief.
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Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 29, 2025
California woman suing Costco for $14M after she says a liquor cabinet display fell on her, leaving her with serious injuries — what to know if you’re ever injured due to a store’s negligence
A woman in Santa Rosa, California, is taking legal action against Costco, seeking more than $14 million in damages after she says a display cabinet fell on her and caused lasting injuries. The lawsuit, filed by Sadie Novotny, stems from a March 22 incident at the local Costco warehouse.
Court filings reviewed by ABC 7 allege that Novotny was walking through an aisle when a large liquor display cabinet tipped over and struck her. Her legal team claims the cabinet had been placed on a damaged or unstable wooden pallet, creating a hazardous environment for shoppers.
Novotny reports she sustained several permanent injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. She’s asking for $9 million for pain and suffering, $5 million for emotional distress, and additional funds to cover medical bills, lost income and household support.
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What does the lawsuit allege?
Her attorney, Claude Armand Wyle, told ABC News that Novotny began feeling unwell shortly after the incident and was taken to the hospital about an hour later. Doctors diagnosed her with a concussionhead injury, and she continues to suffer from headaches and vision issues.
According to Wyle, Costco representatives confirmed the store has security footage of the incident but have refused to share it voluntarily.
“The employee told me that the video didn’t happen the way I explained it,” Wyle said. “I told her, ‘Well, send it.’ She then said, ‘Oh no, you can only get that video through discovery.’”
In law, discovery is the pre-trial process where each side of a lawsuit shares information and evidence. Wyle says that left them no choice. “If I wanted to get to the truth, I had to file a lawsuit.”
The lawsuit was first filed in Alameda County Superior Court but has since been transferred to federal court at the request of Costco. A preliminary hearing to manage the case is currently set for September 4.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
The role of businesses in customer safety
At the heart of this case is a legal concept called premises liability. It holds property owners and operators responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions for visitors. If a customer is injured due to negligence, such as an unsecured display or damaged flooring, the store may be held liable.
In general, stores are responsible for:
- Identifying hazards: Store employees must regularly inspect the premises.
- Fixing known issues: If something poses a risk — such as a worn pallet — they are expected to repair it promptly.
- Warning customers: If a hazard can’t be fixed immediately, clear signage or barriers should be used.
However, liability doesn’t apply to every incident. Businesses are not typically responsible for injuries caused by hazards they didn’t know about and couldn’t reasonably have known about.
But, laws also vary by state. For example, in California, plaintiffs must prove that the business either knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take appropriate action, and that the dangerous condition wasn’t open and obvious to a reasonable person.
Injured in a store? Here’s what to do
If you’re hurt in a store or commercial setting, quick action can protect your health and your legal rights. Take these steps immediately to protect your health and potential legal case:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Even if symptoms feel mild at first, get checked out in case things get worse.
- Document the scene: Take photos or video of what caused your injury, if possible. Ask for contact information from witnesses if you’re able to.
- Report the incident: Notify store management and ask for a written report about the incident.
- Choose your words carefully: Don’t say things that could be taken as admitting fault, such as apologizing or saying, “I’m so clumsy.”
- Speak with an attorney: A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and access evidence, like surveillance footage.
As the case moves forward, Novotny’s legal team says they hope to use the discovery process to obtain the video and build their case. Costco has not yet publicly responded to the lawsuit.
What to read next
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- This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs
Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
June 29, 2025