Houston-based Surrogacy Escrow Account Management (SEAM) owner Dominique Side is facing a lawsuit from more than 30 families who claim she spent millions of their dollars on personal expenses. Attorney Marianne Robak, representing the families, says over $10 million has left SEAM bank accounts. Side allegedly used the money for a music recording studio, her music career, and more. Side has been missing since the temporary restraining order froze her accounts in June. Music producer Anthony Hall, Side’s business partner, testified that Side admitted to mismanagement of funds. Hall, cleared of any wrongdoing, claims Side has been interviewed by the FBI.
Among the families suing SEAM is Jessica and Richard Climer, a Frisco couple who faced five miscarriages before turning to surrogacy. They claim they’re owed $45,000 by SEAM and are struggling to pay their surrogate for the frozen embryo transfer next month. The Climers, like many other families, are devastated by the alleged embezzlement by Side and her company. “She messed with a bunch of people that just didn’t deserve this. I mean we’re hard-working people,” said Richard Climer.
The FBI is now involved in the case and is requesting victims to register claims online. Stories like the Climers’ are circulating across the country, highlighting the impact of Side’s actions on families who were hoping to start or expand their families through surrogacy.
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