Statement of Secretary Fernando Grillo
U.S. Attorneys’ Office, Springfield

I am pleased to be here today at the beginning of the final chapter in a case that has shaken the confidence of Illinois homebuyers. Governor Blagojevich, in creating the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, has said our department is responsible for ensuring that consumers doing business with regulated industries in our state get a fair deal. With this investigation coming to a close, I feel confident that because of our work, and the good work by federal law enforcement agencies, Illinoisans can feel sure that when buying or selling property, they are getting an honest deal.

In 2003, my division of Banks and Real Estate began an investigation of complaints about the business practices of Gary Knox and Dennis Weise. Throughout our investigation, we have worked closely with the federal agencies here today. Since that time, the department has revoked the appraisal license of Dennis Weise, has charged Gary Knox with selling real estate without a license, has closed down one of the mortgage companies doing business with these men, and has approved a transfer of another company into new ownership.

To view a copy of the U.S. Attorneys' Office News Release, Please click here: News Release