So I've finally solved the issue. Not quite the way I wanted however. I went to a whole bunch of different stores and providers, no one was able to get rid of the hardlock. Most people even thought it was impossible. Then my provider offered me to trade-in the two not-so-functioning phones I have right now, then pay whatever's left of my phone balance after that and just get a new Torch 9810. So I did that. It puts me on a new contract, which kind of sucks, but honestly I'm just glad to have a functioning phone now.
The stores are also saying they'll be discontinuing the Torch, which is a shame IMHO, but as a result there's a huge sale on accessories. I got an OtterBox case for $15 and a dock for another $15.