Posted by MICarole on 5/24/07 7:30am
Msg #191714

Theft of Service complaint

I am thinking of filing a theft of service complaint with the states attorney general. I just haven't decided whether to file in the state of Pennsylvania or here in Michigan. The company is in Pennsylvania, but the theft occurred here in Michigan.

Has anyone done this, and if you have, did it help?

Reply by Loretta Reed on 5/24/07 7:34am
Msg #191715

What in the world is that?

Reply by TRG_wy on 5/24/07 8:15am
Msg #191719

Essentially it is fraud. It is the taking or acceptance of services without intending or refusing to pay for those services after they have been provided to you as the parties agreed.

There is state statute on the books here in WY for recovery. Theft of services here is a $750 fine, three years in jail, or both. A breeched contract by a SA for services rendered but who fails to pay is a prime example where this applies.

Reply by sue_pa on 5/24/07 10:57am
Msg #191744

I'm sure every state is different. Generally I always thought it was eat in a restaurant and run out the back door without paying, drive off from the gas pump, sneak out of the hotel without paying, etc.

Reply by TRG_wy on 5/25/07 9:26am
Msg #191957

Re: Theft of Service complaint - followup

SOS quoted me the statute a few years ago. As I am a sworn public officer, notarial services DO apply.

Reply by Bob_Chicago on 5/24/07 8:21am
Msg #191722

Stiffing a NSA is super bad, and you are free to check.....

with local law enforcement folks, but I believe that you would
meed to prove that they had no intent on paying you at the
time they contracted for your services. Very difficult o do this.
Failing to pay a bill incurred in a business relationship is generally
not considered a crime, but treated as a civil matter.
AG will probably tell you to "Sue the bastards"
Debtor prisions were outlawed a while back. Now we
have "bankruptcy reform" instead

Reply by goodgirl on 5/24/07 11:51am
Msg #191755

Would suggest that you investigate your state law a little further. If you decide to file, the complaint would be filed in the state where the breach occurred - your state where you performed the work. This is "proper venue."