Cook County State's Attorney's Office:
Press Releases

Richard A. Devine
Cook County State's Attorney
500 Richard J. Daley Center
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 603-3423
www.statesattorney.org

Cook County State's Attorney Richard Devine has filed suit against First American
Garages & Remodelers, Co., a garage construction and remodeling business owned and
operated by Phillip Kneeland, charging him with violations of the Illinois Consumer Fraud Act
and the Home Repair Remodeling Act.

The suit alleges that Kneeland engaged in a scheme to defraud consumers, many of whom were
senior citizens, by taking more than $35,000 in deposits pursuant to contracts. He subsequently
failed to do the contracted work or refund consumers' deposits. Kneeland also misrepresented
that the business was licensed, bonded and insured; failed to provide consumers with a valid
Notice of Cancellation; and failed to provide them with "Know Your Rights: Home Repair"
pamphlets, as required by law.

The suit, filed Monday is seeking a permanent injunction against Phillip Kneeland, restitution,
and a $50,000 civil penalty.

Consumers who may have been a victim of First American Garages & Remodelers, Co.,
or any other fraudulent home repair business, are encouraged to contact the State's Attorney's
Consumer Fraud Hotline at (312) 603-8700 or visit www.statesattorney.org.

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