DOJ investigates Raleigh wedding ceremony firm after receiving 89 complaints :: WRAL.com

The North Carolina Department of Justice says it
has launched an official investigation right into a Raleigh wedding ceremony images
firm after receiving 89 complaints from brides who say they paid the corporate
hundreds of {dollars} however by no means obtained responses or their pictures.

More than 150 brides say they’re collectively
out of $540,000 after Holly Christina Photography took their cash however by no means
supplied their providers or by no means
launched the pictures already taken.

“I simply can’t assist however fear that I’m by no means going
to get something,” Shannon Rogers advised WRAL’s 5 On Your Side. “At this level,
like, I simply need the uncooked pictures and the uncooked video and to determine it out myself
so these recollections aren’t gone.”

Now, some native photographers are stepping in
making an attempt to assist.

“We’re making an attempt to ensure that the individuals who
want the assistance can get the assistance,” mentioned Jean Aan, proprietor of Halfton Studios NC.

Aan and Avery Wooten, proprietor of Avery Wooten
Photography, mentioned they’re each providing free providers to assist affected brides
or join them with different keen corporations.

“I’ve 4 on the calendar, and have nonetheless been
getting inquiries,” Wooten mentioned.

Aan is dealing with brides like Rogers, providing to
edit their pictures. She mentioned she’s repeatedly tried to contact Holly Christina
Photography to launch the uncooked pictures so she will be able to edit them and return them to the {couples}. 

“If I can get my arms on the media, I can
undoubtedly give them one thing,” Aan mentioned.

So far, Aan mentioned the corporate had not responded to
her provide and hadn’t mentioned something publicly since saying the closure, citing unexpected circumstances.

Christopher Ayscue, listed on the firm’s CEO
and co-owner, was arrested for assaulting a feminine final Fall with the arrest
warrant itemizing Holly Christina because the sufferer. The case is now pending in courtroom.

The firm mentioned it could attain out to brides instantly,
however many brides have advised WRAL News that they had not heard something.

Most brides say they paid all the things upfront in
alternate for a reduction, however don’t fall for that. Pay in installments and pay
with a bank card, which affords some protections.

The DOJ is asking any couple who misplaced cash or
property to Holly Christina Photography to fill out an internet type. Some brides
advised WRAL they’ve additionally filed complaints with their native police departments.