News Summary
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has secured a permanent injunction against Joiner’s Tree Service for exploiting Louisiana consumers in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. The Florida-based company attempted to charge over $100,000 for its services without necessary licenses and misled clients regarding payments. The court’s ruling prohibits Joiner from operating in Louisiana and collecting payments while enforcing a $25,000 penalty. This case highlights the issue of unscrupulous practices by contractors during natural disasters and emphasizes the need for consumer protection in such situations.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has secured a permanent injunction against Joiner’s Tree Service, a Florida-based tree removal company, following alarming practices that took place after Hurricane Ida. The injunction was issued because the company was found to be attempting to charge Louisiana customers more than $100,000 each for their services in the aftermath of the hurricane.
Owner Jeffrey Darren Joiner was operating without the necessary business license required to operate in Louisiana. The Attorney General’s office revealed that Joiner improperly obtained assignments of benefits from Louisiana consumers, making it difficult for them to navigate payment agreements. Furthermore, he allegedly refused to provide estimates for services or copies of contracts to consumers, making it challenging for them to understand their financial obligations.
Consumers were misled by Joiner’s claims that he would bill their insurance companies directly and assured them that the cost of services would be “zero” if their insurers did not cover the expenses. After performing tree removal services, Joiner returned to Florida and then demanded payments of over $100,000 from several consumers through their insurers, creating significant financial strain on the clients.
The permanent injunction issued by the 22nd Judicial Court not only prohibits Joiner from performing any tree removal services in Louisiana but also prevents him from collecting payments on remaining invoices totaling $126,120 from Louisiana consumers and their insurers. Additionally, Joiner has been ordered to pay penalties amounting to $25,000 as part of the injunction.
The initial lawsuit against Joiner’s Tree Service was filed by the Louisiana Attorney General’s office on December 2, 2021, aimed at addressing and rectifying the financial exploitation faced by consumers in the wake of Hurricane Ida.
Background details reveal that the aftermath of Hurricane Ida resulted in extensive tree damage across Louisiana, prompting many homeowners to seek the services of tree removal companies. Unfortunately, some companies took advantage of the situation, trying to impose inflated charges on desperate homeowners in need of prompt assistance. This action by the Louisiana Attorney General’s office highlights the ongoing issues related to contractor conduct during natural disasters and aims to protect consumers from unfair business practices.
In summary, the actions taken against Joiner’s Tree Service serve as a crucial step in safeguarding Louisiana consumers from potential exploitation following natural disasters. The Attorney General’s office remains committed to ensuring that proper regulations and ethical practices are upheld in the business community, particularly in times of crisis.
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