<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by RobertBRichter:
I have been hired (subcontract) to write a computer program handling a "multilevel" marketing sceme. The company sells "health powders". If it is found out that this is a scam (cover up for a chain-type scheme), can I be prosecuted? The employer has assured me that everything is legal in his business; that multi-level is not the same as a chain letter. I have very carefully not to become a member of the business--he wanted to give me special privileges in his business for writing the program. Please email [email protected]. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
My response:
Go ahead, write the program, but SELL IT TO THEM, ONLY. Do not get mixed up in the business, nor take any special priveleges in exchange for your knowledge and work. Multi-level marketing is, in my opinion, a glorified name for "pyramid scheme." There have been so many so-called "vitamin companys" indicted, no one can keep up. Of course he told you that his business is legal. What else was he going to say? However, if he gets indicted under the RICO Statutes, and you are a part of the company, do you think he'll come to your aid?
Selling your product software to them, is no different, in terms of liability, as say, them going to the store and buying software, or reams of paper. Those suppliers have nothing to do with the company, and are therefore not on the hook.
One big tip-off that this is a scheme, is that he's offering you a "piece" of the company in exchange for your work. That means he's undercapitalized, and further means that he's only able to pay suppliers or a landlord with monies he's obtained from others who invest, and thereby, become "blocks" under him in the pyramid.
Keep your distance.
Good luck.
IAAL
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[This message has been edited by I AM ALWAYS LIABLE (edited May 07, 2000).]
