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Re: RCI Innovations Inc. (by Carvan A.):

Mariannem,

When a consumer timely disputes a charge on a credit card as you apparently have done the issuer of the credit card (Capital One in this case) places the dispute with a group within the bank called the "Charge Back Unit". This unit will determine whether or not a product or service was provided by the vendor. The "Charge Back Unit" is not concerned with the quality of the product or service but rather with whether a product or service was provided. They do this by contacting the vendor for verification.

If the service was not provided the bank will charge the transaction back to the vendor and notify you that the charge has been removed. The problem for you and others who pay up front fees to a vendor is that a service was provided if nothing more than placing an ad for your timeshare on an obscure web site. The charge back unit is not investigating whether there was criminal fraud but rather whether the service promised was provided.

If you think the vendor committed criminal fraud you should report the alleged crime to your local police department with supporting facts. Most police departments have a unit that investigates credit card fraud. Local manpower resources and the strength of your facts will determine whether a criminal case is opened. Next you report the crime to the criminal investigation unit of the credit card company. Their first question will be whether you reported the crime locally. If it appears you were merely duped by a salesman's rhetoric and that a service (webb ad) was provided the case will not be investigated

If the bank fails to act on your dipute or you are not satisfied with the action taken you should report all facts in writing to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Inquiries from the OCC get prompt attention from banks.

I am not hopeful that you will be successful but good luck.