He was to collect the garbage once a week. Most homeowners paid $36 for three months of service, but some paid for an entire year ($144). Jaros collected garbage for a few weeks but has not returned.
Some consumers reported that when he did pick up the garbage, he used a rental box truck. Consumers also said they had to dispose of their trash themselves and/or hire a new garbage collector.
The Attorney General’s Office and the Better Business Bureau received more than 30 complaints, but the investigation revealed that more than 600 individuals are believed to have been affected.
“Many of these consumers thought they were entering into an agreement with a reputable local business,” Attorney General DeWine said. “Instead, they ended up with trash sitting outside their homes for days or weeks. Businesses that accept payment from consumers must deliver the promised services or provide refunds. This business did neither.”
The Attorney General’s lawsuit, filed in the Preble County Court of Common Pleas, charges Jaros with violating Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act and Home Solicitation Sales Act by failing to deliver services and failing to provide proper notice of consumers’ right to cancel a home solicitation sale. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to stop further violations, full restitution for consumers and civil penalties.
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly should contact the Attorney General’s Office.
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