State investigates furniture fraud

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FORT ATKINSON -- The Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection announced last Thursday it opened an investigation of Furniture Deals and Steals, a chain of furniture stores with locations in Baraboo, Brookfield, Green Bay, Madison, Sheboygan and West Salem.

With stores closing and some customers not getting their deliveries, the investigation focuses on possible violations of Wisconsin consumer protection laws.

“Consumers who are waiting for deliveries from Furniture Deals and Steals can assist in this investigation by filing a written complaint. Include copies of contracts and proof of payment if you have them,” said Sandy Chalmers, administrator of the Division of Trade and Consumer Protection. “Having additional complaints will help us get a handle on the scope of the problems.”

Consumers who paid for their purchases by credit card should watch their billing statements carefully. Under federal law, consumers have 60 days after the charge first appears on a billing statement to dispute a charge.

People contacting the Bureau of Consumer Protection Hotline say they paid for furniture items, but their purchases have not been delivered.

Complaints can be filed online at datcp.wisconsin.gov; via e-mail at datcphotline@wi.gov; or by calling toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.

Tags: crime and courts, wisconsin, crime