For More Information Contact:
Bill Cosh 608/266-1221
MILWAUKEE – The Wisconsin Department of Justice has filed a consumer protection enforcement action against Joyce D. Gray, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, alleging that she failed to deliver merchandise ordered through her internet-based business. The case, which was referred to the Department of Justice by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), seeks forfeitures, injunctive relief and restitution for affected consumers.
According to the complaint, Gray, owner and manager of Christian D’ Gray Fashion Design, Inc., has used the internet website http://www.myflowergirls.net to solicit orders for made-to-order special occasion dresses. Gray has done business under a variety of names, including Christian D’ Gray Fashion Design, Inc., Christian D’ Gray Couture, and Flower Girl Dresses by Christian D’ Gray.
The complaint alleges that Gray sold custom-made dresses for special occasions, promising prompt delivery and requiring payment in advance. However, the state alleges that Gray repeatedly failed to deliver purchased items or to refund customers’ payments, and also falsely told some customers that their dresses had been shipped, when, in fact, that was not the case.
In response to consumer complaints, in 2008 DATCP issued a Special Order against Gray requiring Gray to clearly state the estimated delivery date and to either ship the goods or provide a full refund by the delivery date prohibiting unfair practices. According to the complaint, Gray has repeatedly violated the Special Order by failing to deliver products in a timely fashion and by failing to provide refunds.
Each violation of the Special Order carries a fine between $25 and $5,000 and a civil forfeiture between $100 and $10,000. In addition, Gray can be required to provide restitution to injured consumers.
The case has been assigned to Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Mel Flanagan, and is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General John Greene, with investigative assistance provided by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
A copy of the complaint is available at:
