Unpaid winnings
On 08/23/13 I requested a payout from Cool Cat casino of $1700. Payout of $1604 was approved, however I was never notified of when I should receive my "overnight" check (which I assumed would arrive via USPS). On Fri. 10/04/13, a message was left on my voice mail by a "Shawn xxxx" stating that my check #1462 for $1604 shipped via FedEx #565140199017 and needed to be deposited BEFORE 10/10/13 due to fraudulent activity with their bank. Now having a FedEx tracking # (I was NEVER provided one previously) I logged on to track the shipment which stated my package was delivered on 09/30/13 at 12:43PM and no signature was required. I immediately called FedEx to notify them I never received my package and opened a case with them (FedEx case #1004137080). I contacted Cool Cat and was transferred to my "VIP host" Debbie . I explained my situation to her. She told me to contact FedEx, because Cool Cat had fulfilled their obligation by issuing the check and it was now FedEx's problem. I asked her to just have a stop payment placed on the check and a replacement check issued and send it with a "Signature Required". I was told that that was extremely difficult to do (I don't understand how it could be) and that she didn't know if it would even be possible. She stated that she would discuss my situation with her manager and get back to me.
That was last Friday!! Today, I contacted FedEx again, referring to my case number. I very kind gentleman assisted me and told me that the shipper (Cool Cat) should contact them and issue a waiver. I contacted Debbie back, and was met with the same responses as I heard from her last Friday....and a few accusations. She told me that it was my fault because I must have contacted FedEx previously and gave my approval for packages to be delivered without a signature! (Side note: FedEx stated that this was impossible as all packages are treated/shipped individually and if a package is sent with a signature required, the only way to receive it is by obtaining a signature.) Again, I pleaded with her to check with her accounting department and they would tell her the check has not been cashed/deposited and to issue a stop payment and have a replacement check sent. Again, I was given the run-around and was told she would speak to her manager and get back to me. When I asked when that would be, she said she didn't know when.
I feel this is now a case of theft, as I have NOT received my winnings, and they are clearly unwilling to do the right thing by stopping payment on this "lost" check and issuing a replacement (of course, sending it "signature required" and providing me with a tracking number the day it ships so I know when to expect it!!!).
What can I do? Noone at Cool Cat is willing to help me, and I don't know if there is some other recourse I can take (ie: FTC, DHC, DCA)? Or am I just out my winnings??
Thank you