AG Warns Texas Businesses Against Gouging, Fraud

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Texas Attorney General (AG) Greg Abbott is warning Texans against taking advantage of the plight of Hurricane Katrina refugees. He said today that he and local law enforcement will investigate closely any complaints of price gouging and false advertising.

AG Abbott says he’s already heard from Nacogdoches city officials of complaints about inflated rates at a local motel. Thousands of refugees from Louisiana and Mississippi have taken shelter in Southeast Texas as the Category Four storm approached — packing winds exceeding 135 miles per hour.

Mr. Abbott advises persons who believe they’ve been victimized to contact his office a 1-800-252-8011 or by visiting the Attorney General’s Web site

(Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

AP-NY-08-29-05 1236EDT