Jones Urges Residents to Report Price Gouging, Predatory Sellers during COVID-19 Outbreak

CALUMET CITY, Ill. – State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Calumet City, is alerting residents to ways they can report suspected price-gouging, predatory sales and other anti-consumer behavior, which has been on the rise as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

“During a time when we need to be working together to combat this crisis, there are big businesses jacking up prices on essential goods to rake in huge profits on the backs of hard-working Illinoisans,” Jones said. “We can’t tolerate this predatory behavior. Taking advantage of people when they need something the most is making it harder for families to cope with the economic impact of COVID-19.”

Jones is condemning reports of massive price hikes on critical hygiene products, food, and even over-the-counter medicines for treating non-COVID-19 related illnesses. Attorney General Kwame Raoul has established a reporting website for consumers who witness price gouging. Residents can report ant-consumer practices at www.IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov. 

“It’s also critical that everyone remain on the look out for fraudulent behavior,” Jones said. “Scammers and other criminals are trying to use this disease as an opportunity to steal. I caution everyone to avoid messages and calls from unknown sources, and to report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement.”