Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha has filed a lawsuit against a debt-management service provider, claiming they violated the state's Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
Neronha alleges that the Michael Moccia and Palisade Legal Group harmed Rhode Islanders by charging illegal and excessive fees and damaging consumers' credit scores.
“We will never tolerate illegal business practices that take advantage of vulnerable Rhode Islanders,” said Attorney General Neronha. “These consumers sought the defendants’ help with managing their debts. The unfortunate irony here is that while the affected consumers sought help to increase financial stability, we allege that the defendants made matters worse through illegal and excessive fees. Further, those who offer debt management services in Rhode Island must register with DBR to ensure statutory and regulatory compliance, and we allege that the defendants did not.
The state is seeking civil penalties and injunctive relief, including a refund of fees to all affected consumers and compliance with laws regarding debt-management services.
(Photo: RI Attorney General's Office)