Office of Consumer Protection

Anyone could fall victim to a scam. If you are unable to resolve a problem such as defective products, erroneous bills or non-delivery of goods or services, the dedicated employees of Pinellas County Consumer Protection can help. Consumer Protection is a division of the Human Services Department.

Quick Facts

New Pinellas County Towing Rates

“On August 15, 2023, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners approved Ordinance 23-18, revising Chapter 122 of the code, adding clarifying language and adjusting defined terms; amending section 122-40 relating to maintenance of records and towing agreements; amending section 122-42 establishing towing rates and adjusting various fees; providing for severability; providing for areas embraced; providing for inclusion in the code; providing for an effective date.

The ordinance was filed with the Department of State and was effective on August 21, 2023.”

See new Pinellas County Towing Rates effective August 21, 2023.

The amended ordinance can be viewed here: ARTICLE II.5. – NONCONSENSUAL TOWING AND TRESPASS TOWING FROM PRIVATE PROPERTY/Code of ordinances/Pinellas County, FL/Municode Library

 

Consumer Protection Outreach

In FY23, Consumer Protection held 104 outreach events aimed at community education to help reduce opportunities for victimization.  Along with targeted presentations, the department events included 3 fraud awareness events with document shredding in collaboration with community partners.

At the September 16, 2023, event, over a 4-hour period, there were 399 residents drove through the event. The event shredded 15,600 pounds of documents and the Sheriff’s Office collected 159 pounds of unused medications. Protecting against fraud, promoting health and safety, and having a positive environmental impact.

Identity Theft Awareness Week shredding event at On Top of the World was held on February 3, 2024. According to staff, cars lined up at 8am all the way down to Sunset Point!  260 vehicles came through and 10 banker boxes of meds collected by PCSO as part of Operation Medicine Cabinet.

Accomplishments

In FY23, Consumer Protection received 1,183 complaints for investigation, opened 963 dispute resolution 225 criminal investigation cases, and received $1,247,112.37 in refunds, adjustments, and ordered restitution for residents.

Recent Cases

In recent telemarketing case involving a scam for advanced fees to sell vacant land, Consumer Protection’s investigation included 104 senior victims (ages 80 to 97 each losing between $1,250 to $35,956). There are 2 subjects of the investigation. With the completion of the first case, the judge has ordered one of the largest restitution amounts in a CP case at $1,037,240. (Assigned to FY24 based on ruling date) The second defendant trial is expected in April 2024.

Rental Scams Initiative

Responding to increased rental scams, Consumer Protection initiated a proactive program to identify and remove fraudulent online rental advertisements targeting the Pinellas housing market. In the first year, April 2022 through March 2023, department investigations identified 200 fraudulent advertisements which were flagged and removed from online sites to prevent victimization. CP continues to spot check activity on this issue.

Expand Human Trafficking Efforts

Performed Human Trafficking signage compliance inspections at 581 different establishments in FY23.

News & Stories

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January 26, 2024

Pinellas County Consumer Protection helps unlicensed contractor victims file charges, receive restitution

A Pinellas County Consumer Protection investigation recently led to charges against an unlicensed contractor and $6,000 in restitution for a Palm Harbor…

Information & Resources

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We Investigate

We work to find solutions that restore fairness and ensure legal compliance. Millions of dollars have been recovered for consumers through refunds, adjustments and court-ordered restitution. For assistance with a consumer problem, the first step is to file a written complaint online, by email or at our office.

Dispute Resolution

Our goal is to assist the parties in reaching a satisfactory resolution. The mediation process is conducted through telephone contacts and informal hearings, which are held at the offices of Consumer Protection, the consumer’s residence or the business location.

Criminal Investigations

Violations of consumer protection laws can lead to criminal charges resulting in punishment for the offender and possible monetary reimbursement through court-ordered restitution.

We Regulate

The Office of Consumer Protection is responsible for licensing and enforcement of certain county ordinances that help protect the citizens of Pinellas County. These include:

Licensing

Monitoring

We Educate

  • Our goal is to prevent you from becoming a victim of a scam.
  • Consumer education presentations are given FREE to local civic groups, high schools and at community events.
  • Always verify that a business has the proper license for the job or service and check their complaint history.
  • Knowledge is your best defense against consumer fraud.

We Protect

Keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Visit www.DoNotCall.gov to reduce unwanted solicitation calls by placing
    your telephone number on the national Do Not Call Registry.
  • Read the fine print before signing a document or finalizing a purchase.
  • Beware of fraudulent offers and promotions that are too good to be true. These may include email solicitations, home improvement scams or high-pressure sales transactions.
  • Never “wire” money to an unknown person. You should not have to send money to receive a free prize or promise of employment.
  • Protect your personal information to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of identity theft.
  • Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to review your credit report annually.
  • Shop around, compare prices and obtain more than one quote for a product or service.