I-Team Troubleshooter: Controversial limo company out of business
DUNN, N.C. (WTVD) -- There are new developments in an I-Team Troubleshooter investigation involving a limo company.
Friday was a stressful day for many customers of Cowboy Limo because they found out at the last minute that they'd have to find new transportation for their special event.
Months ago, Cowboy Limo was ordered not to operate. However, they continued to take jobs, and the owner told us he was doing nothing wrong.
All of that changed Friday when customers got an unexpected call. Triangle event planner Gerardo Somarriba said he was thrown a curve ball when he got a phone call from Cowboy Limo Friday morning.
"An employee stating our reservation had been canceled," said Gerardo. "They were no longer in service."
Despite having a contract where it shows Cowboy Limo was paid in full - a total of $485 - back in March, Gerardo said Cowboy Limo told him they wouldn't be fulfilling the weekend contract.
"They're bankrupt," he said. "They have no information, and she's not obligated to give me more information."
Gerardo was not alone. We heard from brides and other Cowboy Limo customers who got the same call. The news came just weeks after an I-Team Troubleshooter investigation into the company.
We showed how despite the federal government ordering the company not to operate, and fining them more than $86,000 for violations, Cowboy Limo continued to do business.
Back then, we went to Cowboy Limo and talked with its owner, Mark Wilkins, to find out how they were operating despite not having the proper authority.
"I'm doing my very best to make sure these customers are being taking care of, and we are doing everything we are supposed to be doing," said Wilkins.
He was more than eager to answer my questions two weeks ago.
Diane: "Are you admitting to any fault?"
Wilkins: "Here is the thing. We make mistakes. Out here in this world, we make mistakes. I'm not a criminal. I work very hard to have
what I have. I've corrected my mistakes. Now, let's move on."
Friday, when I showed up at Cowboy Limo, we found a locked door at the company's office. Wilkins was nowhere to be seen, but an employee on the lot had Wilkins on the phone.
"He just said no comment, and he wanted you to leave the property," said the employee.
He was not talking now that customers are not only scrambling to find transportation for their special day, but also want their money back.
The best advice if you're a Cowboy Limo customer, and you've already paid in full, is to dispute the charge with your credit card company.
The customers tell me the Cowboy Limo rep said they've filed for bankruptcy. So, if that is true, you will want to get on the list of people owed.
