Kroger
SALEM, Ore. (Legal Newsline) - Oregon Attorney General John Kroger announced on Thursday that the Department of Justice has shut down a consignment business that allegedly engaged in questionable business practices.
Carol Jameson Estate and Moving Sales of Beaverton, Ore., allegedly took advantage of seniors who were moving from their homes in both Washington and Oregon.
"Businesses that take advantage of the elderly and people who are grieving will be held accountable," Kroger said. "We will not hesitate to protect our most vulnerable citizens."
Kroger alleges that the company had questionable business practices concerning elderly people who were moving into long-term assisted living facilities and the relatives of recently deceased people.
Although the company had promised to deliver sales proceeds within a 20-day period, on numerous occasions, it went months without providing any money, and in one instance, didn't pay for more than a year, Kroger alleges.
The company also allegedly allowed employees to take unsold items for their own personal use, even though those items were meant to be donated to charity. The company also allegedly claimed to be bonded and insured but wasn't.
Currently, Carol Jameson is in bankruptcy and owes an estimated $20,000 to her clients, Kroger says.
According to the settlement agreement, Jameson is prohibited from running a consignment business in the future and must make good on all restitution to her clients.
Assistant Attorney General Jermaine F. Brown handled the case for the Oregon Department of Justice.