Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
Soreide Law Group is investigating potential investor claims involving sales practice violations by securities brokers and financial advisors connected to ROCKLAND DST. This investment has been promoted as a private placement real estate vehicle, but concerning information has emerged that may affect investors. Below we outline what ROCKLAND DST is, the issues surrounding it, and what investors should know about their rights.
ROCKLAND DST is structured as a Delaware Statutory Trust, a legal framework often used for real estate transactions. These trusts are typically offered through Regulation D private placements and are marketed as opportunities for investors—particularly those interested in 1031 tax-deferred exchanges—to pool money into real estate projects. While these products can appeal to high-net-worth investors, they are complex, carry restrictions on liquidity, and are not generally designed for short-term or conservative investment goals.
Recent lawsuits and regulatory filings have raised red flags about ROCKLAND DST and related entities. Allegations include the diversion of investor funds, misuse of proceeds intended for real estate investments, and involvement of individuals who have been named in civil complaints. Beyond these serious claims, the structure itself poses risks: investors face limited exit options, high upfront costs, and the possibility that high commissions paid to brokers may have influenced sales decisions. These concerns suggest that many investors may not have been fully informed of the true risks before committing their money.
Brokers and advisors are required to recommend only those investments that match a client’s financial profile, including their goals, risk tolerance, and overall experience with alternative investments. Unfortunately, violations can occur when advisors recommend unsuitable investments, misrepresent the safety or liquidity of the product, or fail to disclose the significant risks involved. Firms also have a duty to investigate the offerings they sell. If these obligations are ignored, investors may be entitled to pursue recovery of their losses through FINRA arbitration or other legal remedies.
Did you experience losses because of investing in ROCKLAND DST because of your financial advisor or securities broker? If so, reach out to Soreide Law Group online or at (888) 760-6552 and talk with a securities attorney concerning a potential recovery of your investment losses. Soreide Law Group has successfully represented investors nationwide and works on a contingency fee basis, meaning the firm only collects fees if money is recovered. All case costs are advanced by the firm.
If you were advised to purchase this investment without a clear understanding of its risks or suitability, you may have grounds to seek compensation. Contact Soreide Law Group today to explore your legal options.
Ernesto Chavez (CRD: 4315877) faces a new pending claim on BrokerCheck over an investment made in 2018. The customer alleges $180,000 in damages, and no arbitrator has ruled on the claim.
William Tunink (CRD: 2738224) settled a customer claim for $299,000 on August 11, 2026, according to his BrokerCheck report. The customer alleged that he obtained loans from the customer, and that some of the money went into an investment.
Tony Barouti (CRD: 3031995) faces a pending $230,400 customer claim, according to his BrokerCheck report. He says the allegations in it are false. His report also lists SEC administrative and cease-and-desist proceedings from August 2025.
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