Allegations of Fraud Rock Pensacola Modeling Competition
Introduction
In a shocking turn of events, a Pensacola-based modeling competition, Miss Fashion Global, is under investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office following allegations of fraud and grand theft. Participants have reported significant financial losses and unmet promises, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the event and its organizers.
The Allegations
Virginia resident Sabrina Vaz and her daughter, Tagan Vaz-Barros, traveled to Florida to confront the issues surrounding the competition. Vaz claims she spent approximately $3,000 on registration fees, hotel accommodations, and clothing for the event. Bank statements reveal a staggering $6,000 payment made to Miss Fashion Global on October 23, 2023, alongside other charges related to the competition. Despite these substantial investments, the promised event and accommodations never materialized.
“We paid for the event; we didn’t get the event. We paid for hotel rooms; we didn’t get the hotel rooms,” Vaz expressed in a phone interview, highlighting the disappointment felt by many participants.
Widespread Discontent
Vaz is not alone in her grievances. She reported that around 60 women from across the country have reached out to her with similar complaints regarding the competition. Many have expressed frustration over the quality and pricing of the clothing they purchased for the pageant, with Vaz describing the items as “poor quality and overpriced.”
“It’s devastating to see this happen to all these young ladies,” she lamented, emphasizing the emotional toll the situation has taken on aspiring models.
Company Background and Mixed Reviews
Miss Fashion Global has been operating for seven years, attracting a diverse group of models from various backgrounds and age groups. In 2022, the competition saw over 70 models advance to the grand finale, receiving national crowns and sashes. The event has garnered media attention, including features in “Pageantry Magazine,” which praised the 2021 competition.
However, reviews of Miss Fashion Global are mixed. While some participants have lauded the event for fostering a supportive environment, others have raised concerns about high fees and organizational issues. The Better Business Bureau currently rates Miss Fashion Global as a “B,” with two complaints closed in the past three years, including one regarding a delayed refund.
Event Postponement and Promises Unfulfilled
Originally scheduled for November 13, 2023, the competition was postponed just three days prior, with participants receiving an email citing “unforeseen circumstances with production and logistics.” The email promised that all registrations would carry forward to new dates, which were set for January 2025 in Destin, Florida. However, participants later discovered that no venue contracts or event preparations had been secured, leading to further disappointment.
Despite assurances of perks such as free photoshoots and room upgrades, many participants found these promises unfulfilled. Some models even traveled to the event location only to find no accommodations or planned activities.
Response from Organizers
Terrance Shaw, the founder of Miss Fashion Global, has denied the allegations of fraud, attributing the cancellations to production challenges and insufficient registrations. “We are not stealing money. We’re trying to keep the company alive and refund everyone within 30 days,” Shaw stated. However, Vaz and other participants have reported that no refunds have been issued.
In response to the growing concerns, Vaz filed an incident report with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office on November 12, detailing charges of fraud and grand theft, with losses exceeding $10,000.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Implications
As the investigation continues, Miss Fashion Global remains active in advertising upcoming events on its website, including the rescheduled January 2025 competition. Vaz has expressed her hope that all participants will receive refunds for their investments, urging others to conduct thorough research before committing to similar opportunities.
Her daughter, Tagan Vaz-Barros, echoed this sentiment, advising aspiring models to be cautious and diligent in their search for legitimate opportunities. “You never know what’s legit and what’s not,” she cautioned.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation surrounding Miss Fashion Global serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring models and event participants. As the investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office progresses, the future of the competition remains uncertain, leaving many to wonder about the integrity of the modeling industry and the importance of safeguarding against potential scams.