CONSUMER RECOVERIES TOP $2 MILLION

(Pierre) Attorney General Mark Barnett announced today that his Division of Consumer Protection recovered a record $2 million for South Dakota consumers during 2000.

"This is the most successful year we’ve ever had in terms of recoveries," Barnett said. "We’ve doubled our recovery amounts in less than ten years. Consumer Protection is reaping huge dividends for South Dakota consumers."

In 2000, the Division handled 2,170 complaints, resulting in total recoveries of $2,071,298. The top three complaints for 2000 involved billings, computer companies, and credit card companies.

Consumers with complaints about goods or services, or questions and concerns about scams, are encouraged to contact the South Dakota Division of Consumer Protection at 1-800-300-1986.