{"id":"court_ctb_4885_0","court":"CTB","case_no":"22-50073","doc_number":4885,"sub_number":0,"doc_type":"PETITION","filed_date":"2025-12-10","title":"UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION |                              | x |","summary_zh":null,"summary_en":null,"body_en":"# **UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION**\n\n|                              | x |                         |\n|------------------------------|---|-------------------------|\n| In re:                       | : | Chapter 11              |\n|                              | : |                         |\n| 1<br>HO WAN KWOK,<br>et al., | : | Case No. 22-50073 (JAM) |\n|                              | : |                         |\n| Debtors.                     | : | (Jointly Administered)  |\n|                              | : |                         |\n|                              | : |                         |\n|                              | x |                         |\n\n# **APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 11 TRUSTEE FOR ENTRY OF ORDER TO SELL PERSONAL PROPERTY BY PUBLIC AUCTION FREE AND CLEAR OF LIENS, CLAIMS AND INTERESTS**\n\nLuc A. Despins, in his capacity as chapter 11 trustee (the \"Trustee\" and \"Applicant\") of Ho Wan Kwok (the \"Individual Debtor\"), hereby files this application (the \"Application\") requesting entry of an order, substantially in the form attached as **Exhibit A** hereto (the \"Proposed Order\"), approving the sale by public auction, to be conducted by The Hamilton Group, LLC as auctioneer (\"Hamilton\"), of a certain motor vehicle more particularly identified on **Exhibit B** attached hereto, free and clear of all liens, claims and interests. In support of this Application, the Trustee respectfully states as follows:\n\n<sup>1</sup> The Debtors in these chapter 11 cases are Ho Wan Kwok (also known as Guo Wengui, Miles Guo, and Miles Kwok, as well as numerous other aliases) (last four digits of tax identification number: 9595), Genever Holdings LLC (last four digits of tax identification number: 8202) and Genever Holdings Corporation. The mailing address for the Trustee, Genever Holdings LLC, and the Genever Holdings Corporation is Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166 c/o Luc A. Despins, as Trustee for the Estate of Ho Wan Kwok (solely for purposes of notices and communications).\n\n### **PRELIMINARY STATEMENT**\n\n1. The Trustee has identified certain personal property that belongs to the Individual Debtor's Estate which should be sold by public auction for the benefit of the Estate's creditors. This property is as follows:\n\n- i. a 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X automobile with a VIN number of WDDUX8AB4JA400527 (the \"Mercedes\").\n- 2. The Mercedes is currently stored at Hamilton's Clinton, Connecticut facility.\n\n3. By this Application, in accordance with his statutory duty to maximize value for the Estate's creditors, the Trustee seeks entry of the Proposed Order, pursuant to Section 363(b) of the Bankruptcy Code, Rules 2002, 6004 and 9014 of the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure (the \"Bankruptcy Rules\") and Rules 6004-1 and 6005-1 of the District of Connecticut Local Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure (the \"Local Bankruptcy Rules \"), approving the sale of the Mercedes by public online auction conducted by Hamilton, upon the terms set forth herein (the \"Auction\"), free and clear of liens, claims and interests and approving the form of Notice of Sale of Estate Property.\n\n### **JURISDICTION, VENUE, AND STATUTORY BASES**\n\n4. The United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut (the \"Court\") has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 and 1334 and the *Standing Order of Reference* from the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut (as amended). This is a core proceeding within the meaning of 28 U.S.C. § 157(b).\n\n5. Venue in this District is proper pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 and 1409.\n\n6. The bases for the relief requested herein is § 363 of Title 11 of the United States Cost (the \"Bankruptcy Code\").\n\n### **BACKGROUND**\n\n### **I. The Chapter 11 Case**\n\n7. On February 15, 2022 (the \"Petition Date\"), the Individual Debtor filed with the Court a voluntary petition for relief under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.\n\n8. On March 21, 2022, the United States Trustee appointed an Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors (the \"Committee\") in the Individual Debtor's chapter 11 case.\n\n9. On June 15, 2022, the Court entered a memorandum of decision and order [Main case Docket No. 465] (the \"Trustee Order\") directing the United States Trustee to appoint a chapter 11 trustee in the Individual Debtor's chapter 11 case. Pursuant to the Trustee Order, the United States Trustee selected Luc A. Despins as the Chapter 11 Trustee [Main Case Docket No. 514].\n\n10. On July 8, 2022, the Court entered an order granting the appointment of Luc A. Despins as the Chapter 11 Trustee in the Individual Debtor's chapter 11 case [Main Case Docket No. 523].\n\n11. The Trustee, working with Hamilton, has prepared the Mercedes for auction and believes that including the Mercedes in an online public auction is the most cost efficient and most likely to maximize the value of the Mercedes for the benefit of the Estate.\n\n12. On January 31, 2025, the Trustee filed a Motion to Employ and Appoint Hamilton as auctioneer to market and sell personal property [the \"Retention Application\" ECF No. 4021]. By Order dated February 27, 2025, [ECF No. 4180] Hamilton has been retained to provide auction services for the Trustee regarding the sale of motor vehicles such as the Mercedes.\n\n### **II. Golden Spring and the Recovery of the Mercedes**\n\n13. Since his appointment, the Trustee has commenced a number of adversary proceedings in the Chapter 11 Case to, among other things, establish that alleged shell companies were the Debtor's alter-egos and/or that such companies and their assets were equitably owned by the Debtor and in several such adversary proceedings, the Bankruptcy Court has granted such relief.<sup>1</sup>\n\n14. The Court has entered judgment to the effect that Golden Spring is the Debtor's alter ego and that its property, prior to the Petition Date, was property of the Debtor. (Adv. Proc. No. 23-5018 (the \"Golden Spring A.P.\"), Docket No. 35 (the \"Golden Spring Judgment\"). The Golden Spring Judgment is final and no longer subject to appeal. The Golden Spring Judgment includes a finding that all assets of Golden Spring are property of the Individual Debtor's Estate and shall be turned over and/or surrendered to the Trustee.\n\n15. In the spring of 2025, the Trustee obtained information that a towing company in New Jersey had possession of the Mercedes and had begun efforts to market the Mercedes for sale. Upon receiving this information, the Trustee commenced an investigation and determined that the title to the Mercedes was in the name of Golden Spring and had been abandoned in New Jersey prior to its possession by the towing company. After contacting the towing company, the Trustee was able to obtain possession of the Mercedes and arrange for its transportation to Hamilton's\n\n<sup>1</sup> Adversary proceedings in which the Trustee is seeking or has obtained such relief include, in addition to the Golden Spring A.P.: (i) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. HK International Funds Investments (USA) Limited, LLC*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 22-05003]; (ii) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Greenwich Land LLC*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05005]; (iii) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Mei Guo* [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05008]; (iv) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. HCHK Technologies, Inc.*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05013]; (v) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Taurus Fund LLC*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05017]; (vi) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. ACA Capital Group Ltd.*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05249]; (vii) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Bouillor Holdings Limited*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05311], and (viii) *Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. AA Global Ventures Limited*, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05322].\n\nfacility. In September 2025, the Trustee obtained title to the Mercedes and in November, 2025 he obtained a key to the Mercedes.\n\n### **RELIEF REQUESTED**\n\n### **A. Approval of the Sale of the Mercedes and Conduct of Auction**\n\n16. Based upon his investigation and consultation with Hamilton, the Trustee has determined that a public auction of the Mercedes with extensive advertising to expose the asset to the public market is the most likely method to maximize the value of the motor vehicle property for the benefit of the Estate.\n\n17. Hamilton estimates the value of the Mercedes at \\$35,000.00. Hamilton has obtained a surety bond in the amount of \\$43,750.00 in connection with the Auction and has provided or will provide the original bond to the Office of the United States Trustee.\n\n18. The online only Auction will be conducted for ten days through Bidspotter via the URL http\n\n19. Based on information obtained from Hamilton, the Trustee believes that the use of Bidspotter is the appropriate platform for the sale of the Mercedes. Bidspotter is a leader in eventbased online auctions, has a worldwide audience and notices potential buyers from its own list of auctions, thus increasing the targeted market for the Mercedes.\n\n20. Neither the Trustee nor Hamilton has any known connection with the proposed internet auction mechanism or any expected bidder. Each participating bidder at the auction will be required to certify through acceptance of the auction terms on Bidspotter that it has not engaged and will not engage in any collusion with respect to the bidding or the Auction. Bidspotter's services shall be limited to access to its automated online service and related customer support. The Trustee believes that there are no rules, policies, procedures, terms or conditions set by Bidspotter likely to restrict bidding for the Mercedes. Bidspotter has a listing fee of \\$350 and is seeking a final value fee of 3% of the Auction proceeds for its services. In order to prevent \"snipping bids\" Bidspotter employs a dynamic closing, allowing additional bidding by extending the auction time for an additional five minutes in the event a bid is placed on a lot or item within the final five minutes of the auction. The Auction ends at its closing time if no bids are placed within the final five minutes.\n\n21. Consistent with Local Bankruptcy Rule 6004-1, advertising for the Auction will occur for at least fourteen (14) days. Advertising shall be geared toward potential end users and the Auction will be marketed on several online sites such as Facebook, Auctionzip.com, and Craigslist as well as other online auction calendars. Direct mailings will be sent to a select list of buyers.\n\n22. In accordance with Local Bankruptcy Rules 6004-1 and 6004-2, the proposed terms of the Auction are as follows:\n\n(a) The Auction will commence on or about January 5, 2026, after the entry of an order approving the Application.\n\n(b) A Hamilton representative will be available at its Connecticut facility to coordinate the removal of the Mercedes after the conclusion of the Auction.\n\n(c) The Mercedes will be sold \"as is, where is, with all faults\" with no representations or warranties. The Trustee may set a reserve price as deemed appropriate for specific items. The reserve price may be disclosed to bidders or set as the starting bid for those items.\n\n(d) The Trustee reserves the right to continue the Auction from time to time as necessary.\n\n23. The Trustee requests that his attendance at the closing on any sale of the Mercedes, to the extent required by the Local Bankruptcy Rules, be excused.\n\n24. Hamilton will file a report subsequent to the Auction, setting forth the results of the Auction and such additional information as may be required by Local Bankruptcy Rule 6005- 1. Funds collected from the Auction will be deposited into Hamilton's escrow account at Wells Fargo Bank or Citizens Bank. These funds will be turned over to the Trustee within five business days of the close of the Auction.\n\n### **B. Approval of the Form of Notice of Sale of Estate Property**\n\n25. The Trustee seeks to have Hamilton conduct the Auction as soon as practicable after obtaining an order approving the Application. The Trustee has attached a form Notice of Sale of Estate Property (Appendix O of the Local Bankruptcy Rules) as **Exhibit C** (the \"Notice\") with details of the proposed Auction and seeks approval the form of the Notice.\n\n### **BASIS FOR RELIEF**\n\n### **C. Sale Free and Clear of Liens, Claims and Interests**\n\n26. Section 363(b) of the Bankruptcy Code authorizes the sale of assets other than in the ordinary course of its business after notice and hearing. Additionally, Bankruptcy Rule 6004(f) authorizes the sale of estate property outside the ordinary course of business by private sale or public auction.\n\n27. The sale of assets outside the ordinary course of business is based upon the sound business judgment of the trustee. See e.g. *In re Chateaugay Corp*., 973 F.2d 141 (2d Cir. 1992); *Comm. of Equity Security Holders v. Lionel Corp. (In re Lionel Corp.),* 772 F.2d 1063, 1071 (2d Cir. 1983). The Auction of the Mercedes is a sound business judgment that will limit storage costs and monetize assets for the benefit of the Estate's creditors.\n\n28. Pursuant to section 363(f) of the Bankruptcy Code, a sale may be approved free and clear of liens if (1) applicable non-bankruptcy law permits sale of such property free and clear of such interest; (2) such entity consents (3) such interest is a lien and the price at which the property is sold exceeds the aggregate value of the liens on such property; (4) a bona fide dispute exits or (5) the entity could be compelled to accept monetary satisfaction of such interest.\n\n29. A lien search and search of title records has indicated that there are no liens or encumbrances affecting the Mercedes.\n\n30. For the foregoing reasons, the Trustee requests the approval of the sale of the Mercedes by public auction free and clear of liens, claims and encumbrances.\n\n### **NOTICE**\n\n31. Notice of this Motion has been given to the United States Trustee, the Individual Debtor, the Committee, and, by electronic filing utilizing the Court's electronic filing (\"CM/ECF\") system, to all appearing parties who utilize the CM/ECF system.\n\nWHEREFORE, the Trustee requests that the Court enter an Order, substantially in the form of the Proposed Order filed herewith, granting the Application, and such other relief as the Court deems just and proper.\n\nDated: December 10, 2025 LUC A. DESPINS,\n\nNew Haven, Connecticut CHAPTER 11 TRUSTEE\n\nBy: *Douglas S. Skalka* Douglas S. Skalka (ct00616) NEUBERT, PEPE & MONTEITH, P.C. 195 Church Street, 13th Floor New Haven, Connecticut 06510 (203) 781-2847 dskalka@npmlaw.com *Counsel for Chapter 11 Trustee*\n\n# **EXHIBIT A (Proposed Order)**\n\n# **UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION**\n\n|                              | x |                         |\n|------------------------------|---|-------------------------|\n| In re:                       | : | Chapter 11              |\n|                              | : |                         |\n| 1<br>HO WAN KWOK,<br>et al., | : | Case No. 22-50073 (JAM) |\n|                              | : |                         |\n| Debtors.                     | : | (Jointly Administered)  |\n|                              | : |                         |\n|                              | : |                         |\n|                              | x |                         |\n\n# **ORDER APPROVING SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY BY PUBLIC AUCTION FREE AND CLEAR OF ALL LIENS, CLAIMS AND INTERESTS**\n\nUpon the application (the \"Application\") of Luc A. Despins, in his capacity as the chapter 11 trustee (the \"Trustee\" or \"Applicant\") of Ho Wan Kwok (the \"Debtor\"), debtor in these above-captioned jointly administered cases (the \"Chapter 11 Cases\" and/or \"Estates\"), requesting entry of an order, (this \"Order\") approving the sale by public auction of certain personal property as more particularly identified on **Exhibit B** attached hereto (the \"Mercedes\") free and clear of all liens and encumbrances; and the Court having reviewed the Application and having considered the statements of counsel before the Court at a hearing held on \\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_ (the \"Hearing\"); and the Court having found that (a) the Court has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 and 1334;\n\nThe Debtors in these chapter 11 cases are Ho Wan Kwok (also known as Guo Wengui, Miles Guo, and Miles Kwok, as well as numerous other aliases) (last four digits of tax identification number: 9595), Genever Holdings LLC (last four digits of tax identification number: 8202) and Genever Holdings Corporation. The mailing address for the Trustee, Genever Holdings LLC, and the Genever Holdings Corporation is Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166 c/o Luc A. Despins, as Trustee for the Estate of Ho Wan Kwok (solely for purposes of notices and communications).\n\n(b) this is a core proceeding pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 157(b); (c) venue is proper pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 and 1409; and (d) good and sufficient notice of the Application having been given; and no other or further notice being required; and the Court having determined that the relief sought in the Application is in the best interest of the Applicant, the Debtor's estate, creditors, and all parties in interest, therefor;\n\n### IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT:\n\n1. The Application is approved in all respects;\n\n2. The Trustee is authorized to consummate the sale of the Mercedes free and clear of all liens, claims and interests pursuant to 11 U.S.C. Sections 363(b) by public auction to be conducted by The Hamilton Group LLC on the terms and conditions set forth in the Application; and\n\n3. The Notice of Sale is approved.\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 4885 Filed 12/10/25 Entered 12/10/25 12:46:02 Page 13 of 17\n\n# **EXHIBIT B (Mercedes)**\n\ni. a 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X automobile with a VIN number of WDDUX8AB4JA400527 (the \"Mercedes\").\n\n# **EXHIBIT C (Notice of Sale)**\n\n#### UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT\n\n| In re:                                                                                                      |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--|\n| HO WAN KWOK. et al.,                                                                                        |                                                                               | CASE NO: 22-50073                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |  |\n| Debtors.                                                                                                    |                                                                               | CHAPTER: 11                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |  |\n|                                                                                                             | Debtor(s).                                                                    |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Attorney or Party Name, Address, Telephone & FAX<br>Nos., State Bar No. & Email Address:                    |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Douglas S. Skalka<br>Neubert, Pepe & Monteith, P.C.<br>195 Church Street, 13th Floor<br>New Haven, CT 06510 |                                                                               | NOTICE OF ORDER GRANTING MOTION FOR<br>PUBLIC SALE OF ESTATE PROPERTY<br>D. CONN. BANKR. L. R. 6004-1(b)                                                                                                                          |  |\n| [8] Attorney for: Luc Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee                                                           |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Individual appearing without attorney                                                                       |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               | INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING AND FILING THIS NOTICEThis Notice shall be completed in accordance with<br>Fed. R. Bankr. P. 6004(c) and (f) and D. Conn. Bankr. L. R. 6004-1(b). This Notice shall be completed and filed only after |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               | a hearing on a Motion to Sell Estate Property, Motion to Sell Estate Property Free and Clear of Liens, and/or Motion to                                                                                                           |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               | Approve Procedures to Sell Estate Property is held by the Court.                                                                                                                                                                  |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Description of property to be sold:                                                                         |                                                                               | 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X automobile with a VIN number of WDDUX8AB4JA400527 ( the \"Mercedes\").                                                                                                                                  |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Public Sale/Auction Information:                                                                            |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n| Date of Public Sale/Auction:   1/5/26-1/15/26<br>Location of<br>Public sep                                  |                                                                               | Time of Public Sale/Auction:<br>Online auction via www.bidspotter.com/en-us/auction-catalogues/hamilton-group                                                                                                                     |  |\n| Sale/Auction:                                                                                               |                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               | NOTE: The Public Sale/Auction may be conducted telephonically, remotely using ZoomGov, and/or by other remote technology platform or medium.                                                                                      |  |\n|                                                                                                             |                                                                               | Objection/Overbid Deadline and Hearing Information:                                                                                                                                                                               |  |\n|                                                                                                             | Last date to file Objections or to submit<br>Overbids to Public Sale/Auction: |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |  |\n|                                                                                                             | Hearing Date and Time regarding<br>Public Sale/Auction:                       | at                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |  |\n\nPursuant to D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b), this form is mandatory. It has been approved for use in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut and will be posted by the Court's website for publication. Public Sale/Auction opening bid:\n\nTerms and conditions of Public Sale/Auction, including whether the proposed sale/auction is to be free and clear of liens pursuant to 1 U.S.C. \\$363(f), and including information about how to register as a bidder:\n\nRegister as a bidder via the internet at www.bidspotter.com/en-catalogues/hamilton-group with a valid credit card. No deposit is required.\n\nThe property is being sold \"as is.\"\n\nForm of payment: cash, bank check or wire transfer to the Auctioneer.\n\nThe Trustee may set a reserve price as deemed appropriate in the auction. The reserve price may be disclosed to bidders or set as the starting bid for this item.\n\nPublic Sale/Auction overbid procedure, including bid increments (if any):\n\nContact person for potential bidders or potential higher offers (include name, address, telephone, fax and/or email address):\n\nThe Hamilton Group, LLC 36 Killingworth Turnpike Clinton, Connecticut 06413 Phone: 860 552-4609 Attn. Michael Knudson (the \"Auctioneer\")\n\nDate:\n\nPursuant to D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b), this form is mandatory. It has been approved for use in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut and will be posted by the Court's website for publication.\n\n#### CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE OF DOCUMENT\n\nI am over the age of 18 and not a party to this bankruptcy case or adversary proceeding. My business address is:\n\nDouglas S. Skalka Neubert, Pepe & Monteith, P.C. 195 Church Street, 13th FL New Haven, CT 06510\n\nA true and correct copy of the foregoing document entitled NOTICE OF ORDER GRANTING MOTION FOR PUBLIC SALE OF ESTATE PROPERTY was served in the manner stated below:\n\n1. SERVED VIA NOTICE OF ELECTRONIC FILING (NEF): Pursuant to this Court's Administrative Procedures for Electronic Case Filing (Appendix A), the foregoing document will be served using the Court's CMECF system via NEF with an embedded hyper ink to the , I will confirm the CM/ECF docket for this bankruptcy case or adversary proceeding and will document. On (date) confirm that the following persons are on the Electronic Mail Notice List to receive NEF transmission at the email addresses stated below:\n\n[ Service information continued on attached page\n\n#### 2. SERVED BY UNITED STATES MAIL:\n\n, I served the following persons and/or entities at the last known addresses in this bankruptcy case or adversary On (date) proceeding by placing a true and correct in a sealed envelope in the United States mail, first class, postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:\n\n[ Service information continued on attached page\n\n3. SERVED BY PERSONAL DELIVERY, OVERNIGHT MAIL, FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION OR EMAIL (state method for each person or entity served): Pursuant to F.R.Civ.P. 5 and/or controlling LBR, on (date) , I served the following persons and/ or entities by personal delivery, overnight mail service, or for those who consented in writing to such service method), by facsimile transmission and/or email as follows:\n\n[ Service information continued on attached page\n\nI declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States that the foregoing is true and correct.\n\nDate\n\nPrinted Name\n\nSignature\n\nPursuant to D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b), this form is mandatory. It has been approved for use in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut and will be posted by the Court's website for publication.","body_zh":"美国康涅狄格联邦破产法院\n布里奇波特分院\n\nx\n\n关于：　：　第11章\n\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵），\n等，　：　案件编号 22-50073 (JAM)\n\n债务人。　：　（合并管理）\n\nx\n第11章受托人申请作出裁定，准许通过公开拍卖出售不动产以外的财产，且不受留置权、权利主张及权益负担\n\nLuc A. Despins，以 Ho Wan Kwok（“个人债务人”）第11章受托人（“受托人”及“申请人”）的身份，特此提交本申请（“本申请”），请求作出一项实质上采用随附附件A所载格式的裁定（“拟议裁定”），批准由 The Hamilton Group, LLC（“Hamilton”）作为拍卖师对随附附件B中更具体确定的某一机动车进行公开拍卖，且该出售不受任何留置权、权利主张及权益负担。为支持本申请，受托人谨陈述如下：\n\n1　本第11章案件中的债务人为 Ho Wan Kwok（亦称 Guo Wengui、Miles Guo 和 Miles Kwok，以及众多其他别名）（税务识别号末四位：9595）、Genever Holdings LLC（税务识别号末四位：8202）及 Genever Holdings Corporation。受托人、Genever Holdings LLC 及 Genever Holdings Corporation 的邮寄地址为 Paul Hastings LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166，转交 Luc A. Despins，作为 Ho Wan Kwok 破产财产的受托人（仅为通知及通信之目的）。\n\n初步陈述\n\n1. 受托人已确认属于个人债务人破产财产的某些不动产以外的财产，该等财产应通过公开拍卖出售，以使破产财产的债权人受益。该等财产如下：\n\n- i. 一辆 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X 汽车，车辆识别号码为 WDDUX8AB4JA400527（“Mercedes”）。\n\n- 2. Mercedes 目前存放于 Hamilton 位于康涅狄格州 Clinton 的设施。\n\n3. 受托人通过本申请，根据其为破产财产债权人最大化价值的法定职责，请求依据《破产法典》第363(b)条、《联邦破产程序规则》（“破产规则”）第2002、6004及9014条，以及《康涅狄格联邦破产程序地方法院规则》（“地方法院破产规则”）第6004-1及6005-1条，作出拟议裁定，批准由 Hamilton 进行的 Mercedes 在线公开拍卖，按照本申请所载条款（“拍卖”）出售，且不受留置权、权利主张及权益负担，并批准破产财产出售通知的格式。\n\n管辖权、审判地及法定依据\n\n4. United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut（康涅狄格联邦破产法院）（“法院”）根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 and 1334 以及 United States District Court for the District of Connecticut（康涅狄格联邦地区法院）作出的移送常设命令（经修订），对本事项具有管辖权。本事项属于 28 U.S.C. § 157(b) 所称的核心程序。\n\n5. 根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 and 1409，本区为适当审判地。\n\n6. 本申请所请求救济的依据为 United States Code（美国法典）第11编 § 363（“破产法典”）。\n\n背景\n\nI. 第11章案件\n\n7. 于 February 15, 2022（“申请日”），个人债务人向法院提交了根据破产法典第11章寻求救济的自愿申请书。\n\n8. 于 March 21, 2022，United States Trustee（美国受托人）在个人债务人的第11章案件中指定了无担保债权人正式委员会（“委员会”）。\n\n9. 于 June 15, 2022，法院作出了一份决定备忘录及裁定 [主案件案卷编号 465]（“受托人裁定”），指示美国受托人在个人债务人的第11章案件中指定一名第11章受托人。根据受托人裁定，美国受托人选定 Luc A. Despins 担任第11章受托人 [主案件案卷编号 514]。\n\n10. 于 July 8, 2022，法院作出裁定，准许在个人债务人的第11章案件中指定 Luc A. Despins 为第11章受托人 [主案件案卷编号 523]。\n\n11. 受托人与 Hamilton 合作，已为 Mercedes 的拍卖作好准备，并认为将 Mercedes 纳入在线公开拍卖，是最具成本效益且最有可能为破产财产利益最大化 Mercedes 价值的方式。\n\n12. 于 January 31, 2025，受托人提交了聘用并指定 Hamilton 作为拍卖师以营销及出售不动产以外财产的动议 [“聘用申请” ECF No. 4021]。根据日期为 February 27, 2025 的裁定 [ECF No. 4180]，Hamilton 已获聘为受托人就出售诸如 Mercedes 等机动车提供拍卖服务。\n\nII. Golden Spring 及收回 Mercedes\n\n13. 自其获任以来，受托人在第11章案件中提起了若干对抗程序，其中包括确定被指称的空壳公司系债务人的另一个自我，及/或该等公司及其资产在衡平法上归债务人所有；在数宗该等对抗程序中，破产法院已准许该等救济。1\n\n14. 法院已作出判决书，认定 Golden Spring 是债务人的另一个自我，且其在申请日之前的财产属于债务人的财产。(Adv. Proc. No. 23-5018（“Golden Spring 对抗程序”）, Docket No. 35（“Golden Spring 判决书”）。Golden Spring 判决书已具终局效力，且不再可上诉。Golden Spring 判决书包括一项认定，即 Golden Spring 的所有资产均为个人债务人破产财产，且应移交及/或交付受托人。\n\n15. 于 2025 年春季，受托人获得信息，称新泽西州一家拖车公司占有 Mercedes，且已开始为出售 Mercedes 作营销努力。收到该信息后，受托人展开调查，并确定 Mercedes 的产权凭证登记在 Golden Spring 名下，且在该拖车公司占有之前已在新泽西州被遗弃。受托人与该拖车公司联系后，得以取得 Mercedes 的占有，并安排将其运送至 Hamilton 的设施。于 September 2025，受托人取得 Mercedes 的产权凭证；于 November, 2025，其取得 Mercedes 的钥匙。\n\n1　受托人正在寻求或已获得该等救济的对抗程序，除 Golden Spring 对抗程序外，还包括：(i) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. HK International Funds Investments (USA) Limited, LLC, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 22-05003]；(ii) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Greenwich Land LLC, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05005]；(iii) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Mei Guo [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05008]；(iv) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. HCHK Technologies, Inc., et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05013]；(v) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Taurus Fund LLC, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 23-05017]；(vi) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. ACA Capital Group Ltd., et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05249]；(vii) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. Bouillor Holdings Limited, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05311]，及 (viii) Luc A. Despins, Chapter 11 Trustee v. AA Global Ventures Limited, et al. [Adv. Proc. No. 24-05322]。\n\n所请求的救济\n\nA. 批准出售 Mercedes 及进行拍卖\n\n16. 基于其调查及与 Hamilton 的磋商，受托人已确定，对 Mercedes 进行广泛广告宣传的公开拍卖，以使该资产面向公开市场，是最有可能为破产财产利益最大化该机动车财产价值的方法。\n\n17. Hamilton 估计 Mercedes 的价值为 \\$35,000.00。Hamilton 已就拍卖取得金额为 \\$43,750.00 的保证金，并已向或将向 Office of the United States Trustee（美国受托人办公室）提供保证金正本。\n\n18. 仅限在线进行的拍卖将通过 Bidspotter 经由 URL http 进行，为期十天。\n\n19. 基于从 Hamilton 获得的信息，受托人相信使用 Bidspotter 是出售 Mercedes 的适当平台。Bidspotter 是基于活动的在线拍卖领域的领先者，拥有全球受众，并从其自身的拍卖名单中通知潜在买家，从而扩大 Mercedes 的目标市场。\n\n20. 受托人或 Hamilton 均与拟议互联网拍卖机制或任何预期竞买人不存在任何已知关联。每名参加拍卖的竞买人均须通过接受 Bidspotter 上的拍卖条款，证明其未曾且不会就竞价或拍卖进行任何串通。Bidspotter 的服务应限于提供对其自动化在线服务及相关客户支持的访问。受托人相信，Bidspotter 制定的任何规则、政策、程序、条款或条件均不可能限制对 Mercedes 的竞价。Bidspotter 的上架费为 \\$350，并就其服务寻求收取拍卖收益 3% 的最终价值费用。为防止“狙击式竞价”，Bidspotter 采用动态结束机制：若在拍卖最后五分钟内对某一拍卖批次或物品出价，则将拍卖时间额外延长五分钟，以允许继续竞价。如在最后五分钟内未作出出价，拍卖即于其截止时间结束。\n\n21. 根据地方法院破产规则 6004-1，拍卖广告宣传将至少进行十四 (14) 天。广告宣传将面向潜在最终用户，拍卖将在 Facebook、Auctionzip.com 和 Craigslist 等若干在线网站以及其他在线拍卖日历上进行营销。将向选定的买家名单发送直接邮件。\n\n22. 根据地方法院破产规则 6004-1 及 6004-2，拟议拍卖条款如下：\n\n(a) 拍卖将在批准本申请的裁定作出后，于 January 5, 2026 前后开始。\n\n(b) Hamilton 的代表将在其康涅狄格州设施提供协助，以在拍卖结束后协调移走 Mercedes。\n\n(c) Mercedes 将按“现状、现地、连同一切瑕疵”出售，不作任何陈述或保证。受托人可酌情为特定物品设定保留价格。保留价格可向竞买人披露，或设为该等物品的起拍价。\n\n(d) 受托人保留在必要时不时延续拍卖的权利。\n\n23. 受托人请求，在地方法院破产规则要求的范围内，免除其出席任何 Mercedes 出售交割的义务。\n\n24. Hamilton 将在拍卖后提交报告，载明拍卖结果及地方法院破产规则 6005-1 可能要求的其他信息。拍卖收取的资金将存入 Hamilton 在 Wells Fargo Bank 或 Citizens Bank 的托管账户。该等资金将在拍卖结束后五个营业日内移交受托人。\n\nB. 批准破产财产出售通知的格式\n\n25. 受托人寻求在取得批准本申请的裁定后，尽快由 Hamilton 进行拍卖。受托人已将载有拟议拍卖详情的破产财产出售通知格式（地方法院破产规则附录 O）作为附件C（“通知”）附上，并请求批准通知的格式。\n\n救济依据\n\nC. 不受留置权、权利主张及权益负担的出售\n\n26. 破产法典第363(b)条授权在通知及听证后，于其通常业务过程之外出售资产。此外，破产规则 6004(f) 授权通过私下出售或公开拍卖，在通常业务过程之外出售破产财产。\n\n27. 在正常经营过程之外出售资产，系基于受托人的合理商业判断。参见，例如，In re Chateaugay Corp., 973 F.2d 141 (2d Cir. 1992)；Comm. of Equity Security Holders v. Lionel Corp. (In re Lionel Corp.), 772 F.2d 1063, 1071 (2d Cir. 1983)。对该 Mercedes 的拍卖是一项合理的商业判断，将限制仓储成本并将资产变现，以使遗产的债权人受益。\n\n28. 根据《破产法》section 363(f)，如符合以下任一情形，可批准出售不附带任何留置权： (1) 适用的非破产法允许出售该等财产而不附带该等权益；(2) 该实体同意；(3) 该等权益为留置权，且财产的出售价格超过该财产上留置权的总价值；(4) 存在善意争议；或 (5) 该实体可能被强制接受该等权益的金钱清偿。\n\n29. 留置权检索及产权记录检索显示，不存在影响该 Mercedes 的任何留置权或产权负担。\n\n30. 基于前述理由，受托人请求批准通过公开拍卖出售该 Mercedes，且不附带任何留置权、债权主张及产权负担。\n\n通知\n\n31. 本动议的通知已送达给美国受托人、个人债务人、委员会，以及通过使用法院电子提交（“CM/ECF”）系统进行电子提交的方式送达给所有使用 CM/ECF 系统的出庭当事人。\n\n因此，受托人请求法院作出一项裁定，其实质上采用随附提交的拟议裁定的形式，准予该申请及法院认为公正和适当的其他救济。\n\n日期：December 10, 2025　LUC A. DESPINS（卢克·A·德斯平斯），\n\nNew Haven, Connecticut　第 11 章受托人\n\n代理人：Douglas S. Skalka（道格拉斯·S·斯卡尔卡）　Douglas S. Skalka (ct00616)　NEUBERT, PEPE & MONTEITH, P.C.（纽伯特、佩佩及蒙蒂斯专业公司）　195 Church Street, 13th Floor　New Haven, Connecticut 06510　(203) 781-2847　dskalka@npmlaw.com　第 11 章受托人律师\n\n附件 A（拟议裁定）\n\nUNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT BRIDGEPORT DIVISION（康涅狄格地区美国破产法院布里奇波特分院）\n\nx\n\n关于：　：　第 11 章\n\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵），\n等，　：　案件编号 22-50073 (JAM)\n\n债务人。　：　（合并管理）\n\nx\n\n关于批准通过公开拍卖出售个人财产且不附带所有留置权、债权主张及权益的裁定\n\n经 Luc A. Despins（卢克·A·德斯平斯）以其作为上述标题所列合并管理案件中债务人 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（“债务人”）的第 11 章受托人（“受托人”或“申请人”）身份提出申请（“申请”），请求作出一项裁定（本“裁定”），批准通过公开拍卖出售本裁定所附附件 B 中更具体列明的某些个人财产（“Mercedes”），且不附带任何留置权及产权负担；且法院已审阅申请，并已在于 \\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_\\_ 举行的听证会（“听证会”）上审议律师向法院所作的陈述；且法院已认定：(a) 法院根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 157 and 1334 对本事项具有管辖权；\n\n本第 11 章案件中的债务人为 Ho Wan Kwok（郭文贵）（亦称 Guo Wengui、Miles Guo 和 Miles Kwok，以及众多其他别名）（税务识别号码后四位：9595）、Genever Holdings LLC（Genever Holdings 有限责任公司）（税务识别号码后四位：8202）及 Genever Holdings Corporation（Genever Holdings 公司）。受托人、Genever Holdings LLC 及 Genever Holdings Corporation 的邮寄地址为 Paul Hastings LLP（宝盛律师事务所），200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166，c/o Luc A. Despins，作为 Ho Wan Kwok 遗产的受托人（仅为通知及通信之目的）。\n\n(b) 根据 28 U.S.C. § 157(b)，本案属于核心程序；(c) 根据 28 U.S.C. §§ 1408 and 1409，审判地适当；以及 (d) 已就申请发出良好且充分的通知；且无需其他或进一步通知；且法院已认定，申请中所请求的救济符合申请人、债务人遗产、债权人及所有利害关系方的最佳利益；因此，\n\n特此裁定：\n\n1. 申请在所有方面均获批准；\n\n2. 授权受托人按照申请中规定的条款和条件，通过由 The Hamilton Group LLC（汉密尔顿集团有限责任公司）进行的公开拍卖，根据 11 U.S.C. Sections 363(b)，完成出售该 Mercedes，且不附带所有留置权、债权主张及权益；以及\n\n3. 批准出售通知。\n\nCase 22-50073 Doc 4885 Filed 12/10/25 Entered 12/10/25 12:46:02 Page 13 of 17\n\n附件 B（Mercedes）\n\ni. 一辆 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X 汽车，车辆识别号码为 WDDUX8AB4JA400527（“Mercedes”）。\n\n附件 C（出售通知）\n\nUNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT（康涅狄格地区美国破产法院）\n\n关于：\n\nHO WAN KWOK（郭文贵）等，　案件编号：22-50073\n债务人。　第 11 章\n债务人。\n律师或当事人姓名、地址、电话及传真\n号码、州律师协会编号及电子邮件地址：\nDouglas S. Skalka（道格拉斯·S·斯卡尔卡）\nNeubert, Pepe & Monteith, P.C.（纽伯特、佩佩及蒙蒂斯专业公司）\n195 Church Street, 13th Floor\nNew Haven, CT 06510　准予公开出售遗产财产动议的裁定通知\nD. CONN. BANKR. L. R. 6004-1(b)\n[8] Luc Despins（卢克·德斯平斯）律师，第 11 章受托人\n无律师代理的个人出庭者\n\n完成及提交本通知的说明　本通知应依照\nFed. R. Bankr. P. 6004(c) and (f) and D. Conn. Bankr. L. R. 6004-1(b) 完成。本通知仅应在法院就出售遗产财产动议、出售不附带留置权的遗产财产动议及／或批准出售遗产财产程序动议举行听证会后完成并提交。\n\n拟出售财产说明：一辆 2018 Mercedes Maybach S650X 汽车，车辆识别号码为 WDDUX8AB4JA400527（“Mercedes”）。\n\n公开出售／拍卖信息：\n\n公开出售／拍卖日期：1/5/26-1/15/26\n公开出售地点　公开出售／拍卖时间：\n通过 www.bidspotter.com/en-us/auction-catalogues/hamilton-group 进行在线拍卖\n／拍卖：\n注：公开出售／拍卖可通过电话、使用 ZoomGov 远程进行，及／或通过其他远程技术平台或媒介进行。\n\n异议／加价截止日期及听证会信息：\n\n提交异议或向公开出售／拍卖\n提交加价的最后日期：\n关于公开出售／拍卖的听证日期及时间：　于\n\n根据 D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b)，本表格为强制性表格。其已获准供康涅狄格地区美国破产法院使用，并将由法院网站发布。公开出售／拍卖起拍价：\n\n公开出售／拍卖的条款和条件，包括拟议出售／拍卖是否根据 1 U.S.C. \\$363(f) 不附带留置权，以及有关如何登记成为竞买人的信息：\n\n通过互联网在 www.bidspotter.com/en-catalogues/hamilton-group 使用有效信用卡登记成为竞买人。无需保证金。\n\n该财产按“现状”出售。\n\n付款方式：向拍卖师支付现金、银行本票或电汇。\n\n受托人可在拍卖中酌情设定保留价。保留价可向竞买人披露，或设为该物品的起拍价。\n\n公开出售／拍卖加价程序，包括加价幅度（如有）：\n\n潜在竞买人或潜在更高报价的联系人（包括姓名、地址、电话、传真及／或电子邮件地址）：\n\nThe Hamilton Group, LLC（汉密尔顿集团有限责任公司）　36 Killingworth Turnpike　Clinton, Connecticut 06413　电话：860 552-4609　收件人：Michael Knudson（迈克尔·克努德森）（“拍卖师”）\n\n日期：\n\n根据 D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b)，本表格为强制性表格。其已获准供康涅狄格地区美国破产法院使用，并将由法院网站发布。\n\n文书送达证明\n\n本人已年满 18 岁，且并非本破产案件或对立程序的一方当事人。本人营业地址为：\n\nDouglas S. Skalka（道格拉斯·S·斯卡尔卡）　Neubert, Pepe & Monteith, P.C.（纽伯特、佩佩及蒙蒂斯专业公司）　195 Church Street, 13th FL　New Haven, CT 06510\n\n标题为《准予公开出售遗产财产动议的裁定通知》的前述文书的真实、正确副本，已按下述方式送达：\n\n1. 通过电子提交通知（NEF）送达：根据本法院的电子案件提交行政程序（附件 A），前述文书将使用法院的 CMECF 系统通过 NEF 送达，并附有指向该文书的嵌入式超链接。本人将核对本破产案件或对立程序的 CM/ECF 案卷，并作出记录。于（日期），确认下列人员列于电子邮件通知名单中，可在下述电子邮件地址接收 NEF 传送：\n\n[送达信息续见附页\n\n2. 通过美国邮政送达：\n\n于（日期），本人将真实、正确副本置于密封信封内，以美国邮政一类邮件、邮资预付方式寄送，并按如下地址寄送给本破产案件或对立程序中最后已知地址的下列人员及／或实体：\n\n[送达信息续见附页\n\n3. 通过专人递送、隔夜邮件、传真传送或电子邮件送达（说明向每名被送达人或实体送达的方式）：根据 F.R.Civ.P. 5 及／或适用的 LBR，于（日期），本人通过专人递送、隔夜邮件服务，或对于书面同意该等送达方式者，通过传真传送及／或电子邮件，向下列人员及／或实体送达：\n\n[送达信息续见附页\n\n本人依照美国法律，在伪证罪处罚下声明，前述内容真实、正确。\n\n日期\n\n印刷姓名\n\n签名\n\n根据 D. Conn. Bankr. L.R. 6004-1(b)，本表格为强制性表格。其已获准供康涅狄格地区美国破产法院使用，并将由法院网站发布。","key_entities":["Despins","Kwok","Ho Wan Kwok","Guo","Miles Guo","Paul Hastings","Luc Despins","HCHK","CIPA"],"ecf_references":[{"doc_number":4021,"court":"CTB"},{"doc_number":4180,"court":"CTB"}],"word_count":3773,"status":"published","published_at":"2025-12-10 00:00:00","created_at":"2025-12-10","updated_at":"2026-08-23 18:43:14"}