KINGSTON, N.Y. (Legal Newsline) – New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced a judgment against Douglas Cooper of Kingston and Nicholas Cooper of Highland, who together did business as N. Cooper Paving, over allegations of repeatedly and persistently ripping off customers.
Schneiderman alleged that the Coopers would go through neighborhoods door-to-door, claiming to have extra blacktop in the back of their trucks. Additionally, the defendants allegedly told customers they could clear snow off of roofs or repair roofs. Claims argue that the defendants would then complete work without a contract, and afterward ask for more money than initially quoted.
“To bully New Yorkers into purchasing services, and then turn around and provide shoddy work for sky-high prices is inexcusable,” Schneiderman said. “We will fight to hold dishonest contractors accountable, and I encourage all New Yorkers to follow my tips to avoid falling victim to these con artists.”
A judgment from NYS Supreme Court Justice Molly Reynolds Fitzgerald bars the Coopers from engaging in the home improvement business until they file a $100,000 performance bond with the attorney general’s office. The Coopers must also pay $23,900 in restitution and $7,000 in costs and penalties.