NEWARK, N.J. (Legal Newsline) - New Jersey Acting Attorney General John Hoffman announced a $1.26 million judgment on Friday against a furniture company and its principal for allegedly committing more than 100 acts of consumer fraud.
JLT Millworks Inc., which operated in Morris and Middlesex counties, advertised that it sold custom-made home furniture and furnishings, including siding, mantels, beams and wood flooring. JLT Millworks also did business as Lumber Jane Antique Barn Siding, Lumber Jane Rustic Mantels, Lumber Jane Barn Beams, Lumber Jane Wide Plank Flooring and Lumber Jane Millworks.
Hoffman's Division of Consumer Affairs filed a lawsuit against JLT Millworks and Janice Tupper, the company's principal, in August. The lawsuit alleged JLT Millworks collected thousands of dollars in payments and deposits from consumers but either failed to provide the furniture or delivered damaged or non-confirming furniture and furnishings.
“The facts presented in court spoke volumes as to the egregious treatment of consumers by JLT Millworks,” Hoffman said. “We’re pleased that the court granted our request to permanently bar the company’s owner, Janice Tupper, from ever again owning or operating a business in New Jersey, in addition to ordering consumer restitution and civil penalties.”
Superior Court Judge Stephan Hansbury entered a $1.26 million final judgment by default against JLT Millworks and Tupper, including $1.17 million in civil penalties, $30,700.95 in attorney costs and $66,537.05 in consumer restitution. Hansbury also revoked JLT Millworks' corporate charter.
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Judgment against N.J. furniture company worth $1.26M
