September 2, 2005

DILLON ANNOUNCES: PRICE GOUGING HOTLINE

Nassau County District Attorney Denis Dillon announced today that he has created a "Price Gouging Hotline." Dillon is focusing on local gas businesses that may be taking advantage of consumers as a result of the recent tragedy in the South.

"It is unconscionable that anyone would attempt to benefit in the wake of this horrific event," said Dillon. "My office will accept any complaints regarding possible gas price gouging and will either pursue them criminally or bring them directly to the attention of the Attorney General and the Nassau County Office of Consumer Affairs, both of which have jurisdiction over specific price gauging statutes and unconscionable trade practices."

Merchants are guilty of price gouging when they take unfair advantage of consumers by charging grossly excessive prices for essential consumer goods and services during periods of abnormal disruption of the market caused by strikes, power failures, severe shortages or other extraordinary adverse circumstances.

"I invite any Nassau County resident who feels they have been the victim of price gouging or that they have witnessed price gouging to contact my hotline at (516) 571-6306," said Dillon.