Patch of Land scam?

[Jennie W.]

Hi, I think I'm being scammed?  Today I saw Bigger Pockets name on an online ad for Patch of Land.  So I'm hoping you can help me?  I purchased and closed on a property from Patch of Land in 2020.  This month the local Title Co contacted me, saying they discovered they have $1000 of my earnest money. (A different Title Co was used to close).  They need Patch of Land to release our funds.  A guy with Patch of Land said they will only release it if I split it with him.  I called and talked to the guy myself.  He said he is not required to sign anything.  If I want my funds released, I have to give him half.  He said he is the only guy there trying to close stuff up for them.  This is so shady please advise.