NEWARK, N.J. (Legal Newsline) - New Jersey Acting Attorney General John Hoffman announced a $66,000 settlement Wednesday with a Paterson-based used car dealer to resolve allegations of misrepresenting the condition of vehicles it sold.
Hoffman's office and the Division of Consumer Affairs filed a lawsuit against Lencore Leasing Inc., doing business as North Jersey Auto Mall, and Lenny Belot, the company's owner, in May 2012. Lencore Leasing allegedly misrepresented the condition of vehicles it offered for sale and failed to disclose prior use and damage of the vehicles.
"Used cars aren't cheap, and our laws require consumers to be informed about prior damage or use as a fleet or rental vehicle before they put their hard-earned money down," Hoffman said. "This settlement will enable consumers shopping for cars to make informed decisions as it requires that all necessary disclosures be made in the future."
Under the terms of the settlement, the defendants will pay $29,000 in civil penalties and $37,000 to reimburse attorney and court costs. Lencore Leasing will also resolve existing and future consumer complaints for a period of one year. The complaints of 17 consumers seeking $135,528.49 collectively will be resolved through the Division of Consumer Affairs' Alternative Dispute Resolution Unit.
An additional $50,000 civil penalty is suspended upon Lencore Leasing's compliance with the settlement terms within one year.
N.J. AG announces $66,000 settlement with used car dealer
