Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has initiated legal action against 17 limited liability companies and two individuals, Eric Vander Ley and Daniel Vander Ley. The lawsuit, filed in the 3rd Circuit Court in Wayne County, alleges a scheme targeting businesses based in Ferndale.

The complaint claims that Eric Vander Ley harassed small business owners by using these companies to coerce payments, with assistance from his brother Daniel. It is alleged that Eric exploited gaps in business registration with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to create clone corporations—new entities using the same names as existing Ferndale businesses such as Bags and Beads, Como’s Restaurant, Beau’s Grillery, and Tin Can Cocktails. These cloned entities were allegedly used to target and harass original business owners for financial gain.

One example cited involves an accusation against the owner of Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop for copyright infringement and business interference. Eric Vander Ley allegedly demanded $500 per hour for discussions related to a fabricated settlement. When refused payment, he reportedly escalated harassment efforts. Similarly, Urbanrest Brewing Company’s owner, employees, and customers were also subjected to harassment following monetary demands.

“These fraudulent LLCs were created to sow confusion, harass, and extract money from hardworking small business owners in Ferndale,” stated Nessel. “Such conduct is not only reprehensible but illegal, and these sham companies must be dissolved. My office remains committed to protecting Michigan businesses.”

Attorney General Nessel aims to dissolve the 17 LLCs through this legal action.