LANSING, Sept. 16, 2025 — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has won a court order requiring a Massachusetts man, Donald Peltier of South Hadley, to dismantle fraudulent political websites that impersonated both parties. If he fails to comply within two weeks, he faces $300 per day in fines until the sites are gone.
The case began in October 2024 when investigators tied Peltier to a network of domains crafted to look official and solicit donations. The complaint charged him under Michigan’s false pretenses law (MCL 750.218), the attempt statute (MCL 750.92), along with claims for Money Had and Received and public nuisance.
Fake Domains Listed
* democraticnationalcommittee.co
* maf.democrat
* republicannationalcommittee.org
* democratic.website
* nationalcommittee.democrat
* republicannationalcommittee.net
These sites borrowed names, logos, and slogans to appear legitimate and mislead donors.
The court order – Shut down the sites, cease all deceptive fundraising, and pay fines of $300 daily if he resists after the deadline.
Why it matters – Scam websites spike during election years, preying on people who think they are donating to official parties. This ruling shows courts are prepared to hit back hard with daily penalties.
If you donated or saw these sites – Call the Michigan AG Consumer Protection Team at 517-335-7599, toll-free 877-765-8388, or file a complaint online. You can also report to the FBI and FEC.
Bottom line – The judge said shut it down or pay up. If you got caught in it, report and document.
