SoCal Fire Victims, Beware Of Price Gouging During Emergencies

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – People displaced from their homes due to the raging wildfires in Southern California may fall victim to a type of fraud called price gauging. During natural disasters, businesses may charge excessive prices for essential goods and services needed in an emergency, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.

Price gouging is a crime during a state emergency, and this law applies to vendors of food, building materials, emergency supplies, medical supplies, gasoline, transportation, hotel accommodations, rental housing and similar resources.

While some costs may naturally rise because of increased demand, state law generally prohibits charging more than 10 percent above the price of an item before an emergency declaration. Those convicted of price gouging could up face up to one year in county jail and a $10,000 fine.

Here are some tips from the District Attorney's Office:

• Be aware of changes in price for goods and services
• Save receipts, if you suspect purchase prices were inflated
• Report suspected price gouging to the District Attorney's Consumer Protection Division at (213) 257-2450

Related >>

SoCal Fires: 'You Had To Chew The Air Before You Breathed It'

Suspected Arsonist Caught Dancing In The Firelight

Rabbit Rescued From SoCal Fire: Watch

California Fire: Devastating Photos As Flames Tear Through Region

Image via Shutterstock