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Case Status
Pending
Federal Trade Commission, Plaintiff, v. American Future Systems, Inc., a corporation, also d/b/a Progressive Business Publications, Progressive Business Publications, Inc., and Center for Education & Employment Law; Progressive Business Publications of New Jersey, Inc., a corporation, also d/b/a Progressive Business Publications, Progressive Business Publications, Inc., and Center for Education & Employment Law; International Credit Recovery, Inc., also d/b/a ICR; Edward M. Satell, individually and as an officer of American Future Systems, Inc.; Richard Diorio Jr., individually and as an officer of International Credit Recovery, Inc.; and Cynthia Powell, individually and as a manager of International Credit Recovery, Inc.; Defendants.
FTC Matter/File Number
172 3085
Civil Action Number
2:20-cv-02266
Enforcement Type
Federal Injunctions
Federal Court
Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Case Summary

In May 2020, the FTC sued the operators of a Pennsylvania-based telemarketing scheme, alleging that they charged organizations such as businesses, schools, fire and police departments, and non-profits for books and newsletter subscriptions they never ordered. The agency’s complaint also names the defendants behind a New York-based debt collection operation, alleging that they illegally threatened the organizations if they failed to pay for the unordered merchandise.

In April 2023, International Credit Recovery, Inc. (ICR), officer Richard Diorio, Jr., and manager Cynthia Powell, have agreed to a permanent ban from the debt collection industry after being charged with engaging in bogus debt collection efforts against businesses and non-profits.

In March 2024, the district court ruled against the FTC on its claims. In June 2024, the district court denied the FTC's post-trial motion to alter or amend judgment.

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