Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and Secretary of State Susan C. Lee announced a Cease and Desist Order against DMV Futures, Inc., a Baltimore-based youth charity, and its president, Marcus Smith. The order prohibits the organization and all associated individuals from engaging in any further charitable solicitations, including door-to-door fundraising.
The action follows a state investigation into complaints that DMV Futures, Inc. transported children to neighborhoods in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia over the past three years to solicit donations and sell candy without supervision. The organization claimed to provide educational programs, part-time jobs, scholarships, and other financial benefits to youth, but investigators found no evidence that such programs existed or that financial benefits were provided.
The investigation also revealed that charitable funds were directed into personal accounts of the organization’s officers without proper oversight or accounting controls. DMV Futures, Inc. also failed to submit required annual reports and fees, resulting in non-compliance with state regulations.
Officials emphasized that the organization misrepresented its mission and misused donations intended to support youth programs. The Office of the Secretary of State, in partnership with the Office of the Attorney General, is responsible for regulating charitable solicitations in Maryland.
Anyone who was approached by DMV Futures, Inc. or whose child was asked to solicit on the organization’s behalf is encouraged to contact Investigator Robert Gurley at 410-260-3859 or DLInvestigations_SOS@maryland.gov.
To verify a charity’s registration or report suspected violations, visit the Maryland Secretary of State’s charity homepage or call 410-974-5534 or 1-800-825-4510.
