Posted in: Comics, Recent Updates | Tagged: Comics, josh hoopes
Catching Josh Hoopes
One of the most frustrating aspects of the Josh Hoopes affair is his constant repeated ability to go to ground and to return, often with the same phone number, address and contact details. Despite repeated attempts to pass information to the relevant authorities, he seems to act without interference. All I've been able to do is repeatedly warn about his actions, and add his new details to the list of previous aliases.
His modus operandi is to use other people's artwork as a way to get work. quote a low attractive price, get other artists to do some of the work at a high price, get a large advance and then disappear. He gained real prominence pretending to be Art Adams and successfully scamming well known comic book publishers.
Well, one law enforcement authority does seem to be taking action. Not the FBI, not in his hometown of Sacremento, but in Calgary in Canada, home of writer David Thomas, a victim of Josh using his "Merrily Martin" alias, along with artist Joyce Chin.
For those of you who would like to help them pursue this matter, by adding your own case,you may wish to contact the reporting constable, Constable Reinders at the Commercial Crime Unit in Calgary. The number for the unit is 403-266-1234 – press 0 for the operator and ask for her by name.
The case filing number is 09271619 and I will be passing over all the information I have.