Cook County State's Attorney files fraud lawsuit against suburban contractors

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against two Oak Park contractors charging that they engaged in deceptive business practices.  Named in the lawsuit are Sharon Simek, President of Anthony’s Remodeling Painting & Decorating, Inc., and Anthony Taglia, who is doing business as Anthony’s Remodeling Painting & Decorating.

The lawsuit filed today alleges the defendants repeatedly took large deposits from homeowners, failed to perform contracted work, and failed to refund consumers’ monies, violating Illinois’ Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Practices Act and Home Repair & Remodeling Act.  

According to the lawsuit, the defendants solicited consumers at their homes and allegedly offered time-limited discounts on their services, and misrepresented themselves to be licensed contractors who timely performed contracted work.  The defendants contacted these consumers via the Internet, direct mail, and by phone.

The lawsuit further alleges the defendants unlawfully withheld performance until customers accepted contract changes that increased customers’ costs, and failed to honor valid contract cancellations and refund requests.  Residents in Oak Park and River Forest were impacted by the scheme; six consumers suffered losses totaling over $24,500. 

State’s Attorney Foxx cautions homeowners before accepting time-limited offers that promise big savings, be vigilant of companies that solicit business at your door, and request proof of licensure and insurance.

“Home repair fraud continues to be among the leading consumer complaints received by our office,” said State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. “We will continue to vigorously prosecute unscrupulous contractors who prey on unsuspecting consumers.” 

The Cook County State’s Attorney’s lawsuit seeks a ban against the defendants’ deceptive and unfair business practices, refunds for consumer victims, and civil penalties of up to $50,000.

For more information regarding this lawsuit or to obtain additional consumer fraud protections, consumers are urged to contact the State’s Attorney’s Office’s Consumer Fraud Unit at 312-603-8600.

A copy of the complaint can be accessed here.

The State’s Attorney’s Office works to uphold public safety through the fair and efficient administration of justice.  Follow @SAKimFoxx and @CookCountySAO on Twitter and Facebook for breaking news updates.