This comment is not about a particular incident but just a generic personal opinion.

There will always be a debate about whether signature campaign managers should hold the funds or whether an escrow should be used to facilitate the process in order to mitigate any potential scams. Having an escrow does not necessarily mean a scam cannot take place but it adds a further of protection. It can backfire if the escrow decides to steal but there is always a risk no matter which way these matters of business are conducted.