MOUNT VERNON — A former local used car dealership owner has been accused of violating Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act and Certificate of Motor Vehicle Title Act.
Ross Premier Motors LLC and its owner, Zachary Ross, had a consumer protection lawsuit filed them Wednesday in the Knox County Court of Common Pleas by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.
“This guy ripped off dozens of customers, closed up shop and walked off with their money. We’re going to hold him accountable,” Yost said in a statement.
Fifty-one complaints against RPM, which was located on Harcourt Road, were filed with Yost’s office, many of which alleged Ross never provided titles for cars purchased at the dealership. According to Yost’s office, Ross claimed he could get the money to resolve the complaints but only did so in a few cases.
Ohio law requires a business which sells vehicles to file applications for certificates of title within 30 days after the assignment or delivery of the vehicle. The business must also obtain the certificate of title within 40 days of sale.
According to the lawsuit, Title Defect Recision consumer claims totaling $60,754.88 were paid from the TDR Fund, which is administered by the AG, after the defendants failed to obtain certificates of title within 40 days. The TDR Fund helps used car buyers resolve their title problems.
The lawsuit seeks reimbursement from Ross and an order preventing him from holding a dealer or salesperson license until he repays the fund and complies with Ohio’s consumer protection laws.
It also asks to fine Ross and RPM, jointly and severally, a civil penalty of $25,000 for each of the unfair or deceptive acts alleged in the complaint.
Customers who suspect an unfair or deceptive sales practice should call the AG’s office at 800-282-0515 or visit www.ohioprotects.org.
