The Landings Association has received reports of contractors quoting residents several times the normal rates for tree/debris removal. Of note, you should NOT provide any money up front for services to be delivered.
Please see the following release that Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) released today regarding such practices:
CEMA Release:
Price gouging is a serious offense and the law enforcement community takes these incidents seriously when predators use the unfortunate circumstances of a hurricane for malfeasance. DO NOT BE A VICTIM.
Attorney General of Georgia Sam Olens and District Attorney Meg Heap both confirm they will prosecute these offenders jointly. Anyone convicted of these crimes could be found guilty of a misdemeanor which carries a sentence of up to 12 months in jail. Additionally, the fines for these offenses can range from $1,000 to $50,000.
Anyone who suspects that they have been solicited by someone attempting to price gouge, should immediately report this to law enforcement. Please contact your police department at the non-emergency numbers listed below or the District Attorney’s Office also listed below.
If you have been the victim of price gouging, do not hesitate to contact law enforcement. Your information could protect others from being victims. Act now!
List of Non-Emergency Numbers
District Attorney’s Office 652-7308
Savannah Chatham Metro Police Department 652-6500
Port Wentworth Police Department 964-4360
Bloomindale Police Department 748-8302
Thunderbolt Police Department 354-3818
Tybee Island Police Department 786-5600
Pooler Police Department 748-7333
Garden City Police Department 966-7777
