November 10, 2010
Connecticut State Banking Commissioner Howard F. Pitkin issued an administrative order against JHASS GROUP, L.L.C. a/k/a J. HASS GROUP, LLC (“JHASS”) of Scottsdale, Arizona. The order included a Temporary Order to Cease and Desist a Notice of Intent to Issue Order to Cease and Desist, a Notice of Intent to Impose Civil Penalty, and a Notice of Right to Hearing.
The order alleges that JHASS offered to engage in debt negotiation and has engaged in debt negotiation in Connecticut without the required licensure. The agency alleges that in connection with its unlicensed debt negotiation activity, JHASS has collected fees from Connecticut debtors that violate Connecticut law. The notice further states that JHASS made false statements in a document filed with the Commissioner regarding the scope of its activities in their dealings with Connecticut consumers.
Under the notice, JHASS is subject to penalties not to exceed $2,880,000 in connection with the allegations set forth in the order and subject to its opportunity to request a hearing. The Commissioner concluded the public welfare required the issuance of Temporary Order to Cease and Desist.
“Please contact the Department of Banking before providing money to anyone who claims to be a debt negotiator,” Commissioner Pitkin stated. He stressed that consumers should contact the agency to find out if an individual or company they are working with is indeed licensed and operating in good standing.
The Consumer Affairs and Government Relations Division can be reached at (860) 240-8170, or toll-free at (800) 831-7225. The banking department also provides consumer education tips on its website.
Additional Information:
JHass Group, L.L.C. a/k/a J. Hass Group, LLC
Temporary Order to Cease and Desist, Notice of Intent to Issue Order to Cease and Desist,
Notice of Intent to Impose Civil Penalty and Notice of Right to Hearing