DURHAM, N.C.-Marin Eakes, the co-founder of Self-Help CU and a prominent figure state as an opponent of predatory lending, was beaten and robbed by four men in a parking garage after leaving the credit union. Eakes suffered multiple bruises, a gash to his forehead that required 15 stitches and a torn bicep that will likely require surgery. The parking garage is used by employees of Self-Help CU. Eakes said he was struck between 20 and 30 times in the head and face. Police are investigating the assault and have made no arrests. Eakes told police he did not recognize any of the attackers.
"They just beat the tar out of me," Eakes told local media. "The level of beating seems disproportionate. Anyone of them could have taken my wallet." Eakes' wallet and cell phone were stolen.
