REPORT IT: Indiana Attorney General Concerned With Reports of Price-Gouging Due to Pandemic

INDIANAPOLIS — Dozens of Hoosiers have submitted price-gouging reports to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office since Gov. Eric Holcomb declared a public health emergency, according to Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill.

Hoosiers have submitted complaints about high prices at grocery stores, home improvement stores, superstores, and more, Hill said Thursday. Consumers say these sellers are charging “excessive amounts” for necessities like toilet paper, food, and cleaning products.

“Hoosier consumers should never have to pay exorbitant prices for essential products, especially amid the coronavirus pandemic, which is causing thousands to suffer financial hardships,” Attorney General Hill said.

The office’s Consumer Protection Division reviews all price-gouging complaints and contacts the consumers who file the complaints. If it is determined that a seller committed an unfair or unconscionable business practice, the office then considers issuing a cease-and-desist letter to that seller.

Attorney General Hill asks Hoosiers who believe they’ve been subjected to excessive prices during the coronavirus pandemic to file complaints with the Consumer Protection Division. Pictures of the prices and products, as well as copies of receipts, are helpful during the review process.

To submit a complaint online, visit https://indianaattorneygeneral.secure.force.com/ConsumerComplaintForm