Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the retail giant of misleading tens of thousands of D.C. residents in Wards 7 and 8 about Prime membership benefits. According to the lawsuit, Amazon has excluded ZIP codes 20019 and 20020 from its advertised fastest delivery services since 2022 while still charging these residents the full Prime subscription price. This is a clear-cut case of consumer fraud, and something that a Washington, D.C. consumer fraud lawyer can help you resolve.
The lawsuit alleges Amazon secretly ceased using its branded delivery trucks in these areas, opting instead for slower third-party carriers like UPS and the U.S. Postal Service. While Prime members in these neighborhoods once saw 72% of packages delivered within two days, that figure plummeted to 25% in 20019 and 24% in 20020 by 2023. Meanwhile, delivery speeds in other D.C. ZIP codes improved.
Schwalb contends Amazon knowingly concealed this decision from current and prospective Prime members, violating D.C.’s Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA). Residents who complained were allegedly misled by Amazon representatives, who falsely claimed delays were due to unforeseen circumstances.
“Amazon is charging residents in Wards 7 and 8 for a premium service they’re not receiving,” said Schwalb. “Every dollar spent should carry the same value, regardless of ZIP code.”
The lawsuit seeks to end Amazon’s alleged deceptive practices, secure restitution for affected residents, and impose civil penalties.
D.C. residents can report unfair business practices or scams by contacting the Office of the Attorney General at (202) 442-9828 or visiting their website.
What Can I Do If I’m Defrauded By A Major Corporation?
Consumer fraud can take many forms, such as false advertising, deceptive business practices, fraudulent contracts, or identity theft. When a large corporation is involved, the complexity of the case can make it challenging for individuals to pursue justice on their own. A consumer fraud lawyer can ensure your rights are protected.
First, a consumer fraud attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the situation. They will gather evidence, such as contracts, marketing materials, and financial documents, to determine how the corporation defrauded you and if other consumers were similarly affected. The lawyer will identify whether the corporation engaged in illegal or deceptive practices under state or federal consumer protection laws, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act or the Federal Trade Commission Act.
Once fraud is established, the lawyer will advise you on your legal options. They will help you file a lawsuit against the corporation, seeking compensation for damages like financial losses, emotional distress, or punitive damages. If there’s evidence of widespread fraud, the lawyer may also explore the possibility of class action litigation, which allows many consumers who’ve been harmed by the same corporation to join forces and pursue a collective lawsuit.
A skilled consumer fraud lawyer will also negotiate with the corporation’s legal team and insurers to achieve a fair settlement. If the case goes to trial, the lawyer will represent you in court, using their knowledge of consumer protection laws and litigation strategies to maximize your chances of success. At Eric Siegel Law, we’re not afraid to take on global corporations in pursuit of consumer rights. We represent people like you who otherwise would not have a voice. Call our offices today for information about how our attorney can help you resolve your consumer fraud case.