SEATTLE (Legal Newsline) – Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that Benjamin Rogovy will pay as much as $7,750,000 to roughly 165,000 consumers nationwide after allegations he used deceptive business practices.
Rogovy owns a for-profit company called Christian Prayer Center that sells prayers to consumers. He allegedly deceived these consumers through the creation of fake religious leaders and false testimonials.
Rogovy also owns and operates Consumer Complaint Agency, a for-profit organization that promised consumers it would advocate on their behalf to businesses. Ferguson’s office argues that Rogovy did little more than passively forward complaints after receiving $25 from consumers.
Alleged actions like these violate Washington’s Consumer Protection Act, which bans businesses from making false claims. They additionally violate the Charitable Solicitations Act, which bars charities from misleading and deceptive statements.
“I believe in the power of prayer,” Ferguson said. “What I do not believe in and what I will not tolerate is unlawful businesses that prey upon people – taking advantage of their faith or their need for help – in order to make a quick buck.”
Assistant Attorney General Dan Davies handled the case.