LOS ANGELES (CelebrityAccess) — Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer announced that his office has launched a public awareness campaign in coordination with the County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs and entertainment industry advocacy groups such as the Screen Actors Guild to educate the public against Hollywood talent scams.
“Thousands come to Hollywood every year to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry,” said City Attorney Mike Feuer during a press conference. “We need to protect them from those who would dash those dreams by taking unfair advantage of them.”
During the press conference, Feuer details charges brought against talent manager Debra Baum, who allegedly solicited a 19-year old singer in a hair salon to sign a $10,000 per month management contract to handle her vocal career.
Before ending the contract in September 2012, the victims’ family allegedly paid $70,000 in management fees to Baum as well as thousands of dollars in third party expenses for vocal training, stylists and recordings.
The victim’s sister was also allegedly solicited for a contract and paid an additional $40,000 to Baum in management fees for acting.
If convicted, Baum could face up to two years in jail and $20,000 in fines. Baum did not respond to a request for comment. – Staff Writers
