(CINCINNATI, Ohio) – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today filed a lawsuit against Kevin L. Hunter of Cincinnati for failing to deliver goods he offered for sale on Craigslist, primarily automobile tires and rims. State and federal databases indicate that victims lost more than $50,000 to Hunter over seven years. The civil lawsuit charges Hunter with violating Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act.
“It’s bad enough when a consumer ends up paying for shoddy workmanship or products that don’t perform as promised,” said Attorney General DeWine. “But paying for something and getting nothing is outrageous.”
According to the lawsuit, Hunter advertises various goods for sale on Craigslist. He targets out-of-state consumers, saying he previously lived in the consumer’s home state but recently relocated to Ohio. Sometimes he claims that his father is a delivery company employee, so shipping will be free.
He often includes his phone number and encourages potential buyers to call or text him if they are interested. He uses prepaid cellular telephones and changes his number frequently to evade unhappy consumers and law enforcement, according to the lawsuit.
When victims are interested in buying the goods, Hunter usually asks them to pay through a wire transfer service. After receiving payment, Hunter fails to deliver the goods and purchasers generally are unable to reach Hunter again.
The Attorney General’s lawsuit charges Hunter with multiple violations of Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act, including failure to deliver, misrepresenting price advantages, and advertising and selling without possessing the goods to be sold. In the lawsuit, the Attorney General seeks consumer restitution, injunctive relief, and civil penalties.
When buying online, Attorney General DeWine encourages consumers to check a seller’s reputation and to deal with local sellers they can meet in person. Consumers always should meet in a safe, public place and bring someone with them for safety. They also should be wary if a seller requires payment via wire transfer or prepaid card, which are difficult to track once money has been sent.
To report unfair business practices or potential scams, consumers should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.
Complaint:
Hunter (PDF)
Media Contacts:
Dan Tierney: 614-466-3840
Mark Moretti: 614-466-3840