(NewsNation) — An investigation into resident unrest at a South Dakota residential bunker complex, marketed to doomsday preppers, has uncovered multiple problems.
South Dakota News Watch found the Vivox xPoint bunker complex, located eight miles south of Edgemont, is at the center of lawsuits, complaints to the state attorney general, a near-fatal shooting, and an FBI inquiry.
Developed in 2016 on a former Black Hill Army Deport munitions storage facility, the complex features 500 above-ground concrete bunkers.
While owner Robert K. Vicino claims more than 200 of the bunkers are leased and the community is thriving, many residents who sought to make it their permanent home disagree.
At least 16 lawsuits underway
Over the past four months, South Dakota News Watch uncovered 16 lawsuits involving Vivos xPoint, with actions filed both by and against residents, Vivos management, and its subcontractors. Five complaints have also been lodged with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, and two former residents confirmed FBI interviews.
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The lawsuits include eviction disputes, demands for refunds, and claims Vivos failed to deliver promised amenities, security, and services.
Vivos owner Robert Vicino blamed “bad apples” for the disputes, stating legal actions arise only if residents violate the 99-year lease or community rules. Residents pay up to $55,000 upfront, $3,000 for water, and ongoing fees, but they do not own their bunkers. Leases include non-disclosure clauses prohibiting media contact under penalty of fines or eviction.
Attorney J. Scott James noted that evicted residents risk losing their investment, and any improvements made, with Vivos able to re-lease the bunkers.
Residents interviewed by FBI
The FBI’s San Diego office has interviewed at least two former residents of the bunker complex, according to the South Dakota News Watch.
One former resident, Elliott, told the outlet that FBI agents questioned him in November about Vicino “dealing with problems in an illegal way.”
Another ex-resident, David Streeter, told the outlet he was interviewed twice regarding leases, finances, and other allegations against Vicino.
Streeter, who shot a Vivos subcontractor in August but wasn’t charged, is involved in lawsuits against Vivos over evictions and defamation while also facing eviction himself.
The FBI declined to respond to South Dakota News Watch’s request for comment regarding the investigation or confirm if active investigations were underway. Vicino said he was unaware of any inquiry but welcomed it.
Other issues residents are unhappy with
At least three current and former Vivos residents told South Dakota News Watch they are concerned about two on-site subcontractors with criminal records
Amenities promised by Vivos — prominently advertised on signs and its website — remain incomplete years after the complex opened. Residents report paying upfront for bunker leases or improvements that can take years to finish, if ever, while still being charged monthly fees for common area amenities.
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One resident, Roehm, filed a complaint with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office, citing issues such as an improperly installed septic system, unfinished roof repairs, and unfulfilled promises of security systems and personnel.
In November, Michelle Collins, a Virginia resident, sued Vivos, alleging multiple contract breaches. According to her lawsuit, she paid $35,000 for a bunker lease, $3,000 for water, and $94,000 for improvements, while also covering annual land fees and monthly maintenance and security charges.
Residents wanted a peaceful, stable life: Attorney
Vicino said his son, Dante Vicino, who oversees operations at the complex, is in contact with the state attorney general’s office. According to Robert Vicino, officials at the attorney general’s office have praised their compliance, stating they’re “doing it by the book.”
However, some residents have raised concerns about the response and protection provided by the Fall River County Sheriff’s Office regarding complaints about the complex and its subcontractors.
James said his clients are frustrated and disappointed, as they only sought a peaceful, stable life but have instead ended up in court. He said he hopes the state attorney general or another law enforcement agency will investigate the situation.
