Criminal Price Gouging During COVID-19

Before disaster strikes, we often head straight to the stores to stock up on essential items that will be needed. The COVID-19 pandemic is no different, as we have seen people gathering toilet paper, masks, and groceries as they quickly empty the store shelves. Unfortunately, during these times it is not uncommon for someone to become a victim of price gouging as sellers begin offering goods at an unconscionable price. As common as it may seem, it is illegal. At Pallegar Law, our price-gouging attorneys are ready to help you take legal action against any corporation taking part in criminal price gouging during COVID-19. We can offer assistance to, and represent clients who have become victims to price gouging in Bradenton.

The Florida Attorney General has reported receiving almost 1000 reports of price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic, dating back to the beginning of March. Examples of what has been reported are sellers asking $187 for eight cans of Lysol, and $788 for 12 rolls of paper towels. These are only what are being reported, as there could be many additional price gouging cases in your hometown of Bradenton that need to be reported and corrected. It is recommended that you obtain as much information in the form of receipts, invoices, or bills from the incident and allow our Lawyers at Pallegar Law, P.A. to assist you in correcting those wrongs done to you.

Florida Statute 501.160 states that during a state of emergency, it is unlawful to sell, lease, offer to sell, or offer for lease essential commodities, dwelling units, or self-storage facilities for an amount that grossly exceeds the average price for that commodity during the 30 days before the declaration of the state of emergency. Examples of necessary commodities are food, ice, gas, and lumber. Not covered under price gouging laws are non-essential luxury items including alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. We understand your need for essential items during such hard times and our price gouging attorneys will make great effort to right the wrongs of price gougers. Anyone offering goods at an above average price during these hard times is subject to a criminal offense and could face a 2nd-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $1000 and/or up to 60 days in jail.

Transitioning back to normal standards is difficult as it is, but will be even harder if you or someone you know is affected by criminal price gouging in Bradenton. The Attorney General has put precautions such as the price gouging hotline and price gouging app to report this offense in place, but there could always be an unfortunate instance that occurs. If you see or are a victim to price gouging, you should immediately call one of our Lawyers at Pallegar Law, P.A. to assist you in holding these corporations accountable.

If you are someone you know have fallen victim to criminal price gouging due to COVID- 19 in Bradenton, you should immediately seek help from one of our experienced Bradenton attorneys at Pallegar Law, P.A. Call 941-893-5816 for your free consultation.