New York Attorney General Letitia James has called on veterans and service members affected by Harris Jewelry's deceptive practices to file claims for refunds. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District has mandated that Harris Jewelry reopen its portal, allowing defrauded consumers to submit claims until December 21st. This follows a July 2022 settlement reached by Attorney General James and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which required Harris Jewelry to cancel $21.3 million in debt for over 13,000 individuals and provide $12.8 million in refunds to more than 40,000 people misled into purchasing lifetime protection plans on substandard jewelry.
"Service members and veterans give up so much to serve our country, and they deserve to be honored and respected, not misled and defrauded," stated Attorney General James. "I was proud that my office secured a major settlement with Harris Jewelry over their deceptive practices, and I urge impacted New Yorkers to file a claim now to get their money back before the refund portal closes on December 21st."
The settlement addressed allegations that Harris Jewelry deceived active-duty service members and veterans by suggesting they could enhance their credit scores through its financing program while investing in jewelry products. Instead, many were left with high-interest rates, substantial debt, poor-quality jewelry, and damaged credit scores.
Consumers who purchased items from Harris Jewelry under the Lifetime Jewelry and Watch Protection Plan are encouraged to file claims online if they have not yet done so or did not receive a response after filing previously. Those facing difficulties in filing can contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Watertown Regional Office at 315-523-6080.
Attorney General James' efforts alongside the FTC resulted in an agreement across 18 states requiring Harris Jewelry to cease collecting outstanding debts, issue refunds, correct negative credit scores, and dissolve all business operations. In New York alone, this led to $756,644 in debt cancellation for 443 service members.
To proceed with claiming a refund from Harris Jewelry, eligible individuals should visit their online portal.