A New York resident has filed a lawsuit against an Illinois man, accusing him of fraudulent misrepresentation and unjust enrichment in a scheme involving the sale of vehicles. On February 27, 2025, Amy Gropp lodged her complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against William Walter Quinlan. The case highlights serious allegations that could have broader implications for consumer protection and fraud prevention.
According to the complaint, Amy Gropp and William Walter Quinlan became acquainted while working at the same company around 2022. Quinlan allegedly presented himself as a licensed automobile dealer capable of acquiring vehicles at discounted prices. Gropp, having recently sold real estate, was interested in purchasing vehicles for herself and her family members. During a work-related conference in April 2024, Quinlan offered to sell Gropp four vehicles, including two Chevrolet Tahoes, a Chevrolet Traverse, and a Chevrolet Blazer for $115,000. He supported his claims with photographs and assurances about vehicle warranties and mileage.
Gropp wired payments totaling $115,000 to Quinlan between May 3 and May 17, 2024. Despite receiving these funds, Quinlan failed to deliver any vehicles or return the money. Throughout their interactions, he provided various excuses for delays and even suggested additional purchases to further defraud Gropp. His claims included false information about his dealership's operations under "A2B Motors Inc.", which had been dissolved since October 2022 according to state records.
The lawsuit accuses Quinlan of breach of contract by failing to deliver the agreed-upon vehicles or refunding the payment made by Gropp. It also charges him with unjust enrichment for retaining the funds without providing any benefit in return. Additionally, it alleges fraudulent misrepresentation due to his deceitful promises regarding vehicle delivery and dealership status.
Gropp seeks compensatory damages of $115,000 plus additional damages determined at trial. She also requests punitive damages to penalize Quinlan's alleged fraudulent conduct.
The case is represented by attorney Richard N. Franco from Davidson Fink LLP on behalf of Amy Gropp. The presiding judge is yet to be named in this ongoing legal battle identified as Case No: 1:25-cv-02041.