Dale, man, how in the world did I miss this 20-page gem? Guess it doesn't help that I'm not actively on IG. Anyway, thank you for bringing this to the fore and I have no doubt you have done your level best to keep this as factual, and to the letter, as possible. I'm disappointed and shocked in Dustin's behavior to say the very least. I honestly thought he was better than this.
I am so sorry for what you have gone through and are still trying to resolve. I hope Dustin IMMEDIATELY sets aside his guilt, pride, embarrassment, and just picks up his phone and calls you personally. Brother, your patience and transparency is to be admired. As for Jim being involved to whatever degree, I agree with you wholeheartedly. I have every confidence Jim was, to a small degree, only trying to assist both parties. Bottom line, it's unfortunate that Dustin did not do the right thing from the get-go but that ship has sailed. It is fairly clear that his reputation and business are now clearly tarnished (secondary $$$ and demand are dropping daily) and this was entirely avoidable if he had only acted with integrity in all business deals/agreements. This is too bad because he is one helluva talented knife maker (who, BTW, was very nice to me 2+ years ago). I hope Dustin resolves this for you ASAP and gets back on track to reestablishing a more positive reputation and work ethic. This includes making things right with those (of the selected 25) still waiting on their knives promised by a prompt return of their $100 deposit--and personal apologies. If Dustin truly needs counseling/mental help, then he should get it, but there is no longer any excuse good enough for his repeated and lengthy delays. Keeping his word should always be a man's top priority, I don't care who you are or think you are.
I'll now be following this thread and hope it ends appropriately for you... and SOON. You're a good man, Dale. Call anytime.
~ Rob