Georgia attorney general warns scammers to ‘think twice’ about targeting storm victims

ATLANTA — Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr on Friday warned scammers to “think twice” before targeting Albany and Southwest Georgia victims of the Jan. 2 storms that ravaged parts of the region, noting that penalties for that type of illegal activity could be as much as $15,000 per violation.

Carr also said that the “best option” as Southwest Georgia recovers from property damage is to take steps to avoid becoming victims.

Albany and the region sustained millions of dollars in damages to personal property and public infrastructure from the high winds, tornadoes and rain that came with the powerful storm system that ripped through the area late Jan. 2 and early Jan. 3. Power was interrupted at more than 25,000 customers in Albany and many were still without electricity Friday.

Meanwhile, homeowners and businesses impacted by the storms have begun repairing damaged structures. The desire to expedite repairs can lead to problems for the property owner.

“Sadly enough,” Carr said, “con artists often exploit disasters by taking advantage of storm victims or preying on the sympathies of those who want to help out.

“The Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit is authorized to investigate scams and price gouging. Under Georgia law, penalties for this type of conduct can range between $2,000 to $15,000 per violation. We strongly urge you to think twice about taking advantage of consumers who are attempting to rebuild their lives in this storm’s aftermath.”

Carr said there were things that property owners can do to lessen their chances of being victimized twice — first by the storm, then by scam artists:

— Follow the adage that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. If contracting for repair work or tree-removal services, ask questions of and seek references from anyone looking to do the work.

— Get competing estimates, especially if it is a large or lengthy project, and be sure to get everything in writing, including estimates on the cost of the work, as well as any warranties or promises made by either the contractor or the manufacturer of the goods that will be used in the construction.

— Make certain that start and end dates are specified.

— Take as much time as needed to feel comfortable before signing anything. If there is anything in a contract that you do not understood or it appears to conflict with verbal promises, don’t sign it.

Carr said those who believe they have been victimized by a scam artist or price gouging should contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit at 1 (800) 869-1123.

More resources can be found at the Consumer Protection Unit’s website, www.consumer.ga.gov.

Telephone counselors are available between 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday.