The legal answer is that taking money without intention to perform is a form of fraud, but "intent" is often hard to prove. There could be a number of reasons why DOMERB CONSULTANTS hasn't performed or communicated with the "clients." Inability to prove intent does not excuse non-performance, but it would be civil matter (i.e. breach of contract) rather than criminal.
Prosecutors rarely get involved in matters like this, unless there is a clear pattern of conduct and usually large amounts of money at stake. The prosecutors office (goes by a variety of names depending on jurisdiction) is often underfunded, under manned and overworked, and they simply don't have resources to pursue action against what they often view as private business matters.
Wronged parties can of course pursue a civil lawsuit against the vendor, but there are a whole lot of practical considerations. First, the amount in controversy is roughly $1000-1500 per client, and hiring an attorney on a individual basis would be cost prohibitive. Most states have a small claim process where you don't have to hire an attorney (like People Court !), but you would still have to serve and have jurisdiction over the defendant. (I don't know where DODMERB Associates is based out of, but asserting jurisdiction in your home venue may be problematic). I think someone mentioned and I commented upon the feasibility of class action last year... but finally, and probably most important, collectability of any judgment is always an issue. A consulting business rarely has any significant assets , and if organized as a Corporation, LLC or other legal entity, it is very difficult to get to personal assets.
(This is a very simplified answer , with lots of exceptions and caveats) Bottom line, there is little practical resource against businesses like this. The answer is to do your due diligence up front and use reputable vendors.
