Ill. A.G. Seeks Contempt Order Against Contractor

Following new complaints received by her Consumer Fraud Bureau, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan filed contempt charges against a Williamson County asphalt contractor for allegedly violating terms of two past court orders.

Madigan said complaints about the alleged poor quality of work performed by Tom Stanley, d/b/a Heartland Asphalt, follow a March 1997 court order in which a Williamson County judge barred Stanley from the asphalt business unless his work was consistent with trade standards and practices.

The 1997 order was modified in July 2000 in an effort to force Stanley to fulfill all work promised in contracts with consumers, to honor all warranties and to ensure that his customers were informed of their right to cancel contracts within three days of signing.

Madigan’s contempt petition cites total losses of more than $5,000 between four southern Illinois homeowners who complained that Stanley failed to honor warranties, failed to inform them of their three-day right to cancel and failed to deliver what was agreed to in the contract. In one case, Stanley reportedly portrayed himself as a licensed roofer, although he does not possess the required professional license to provide roofing services. Stanley has reportedly ignored efforts by Madigan’s office to mediate the complaints on behalf of the consumers.

“Mr. Stanley must understand that his disregard of the law and for the court will not be tolerated,” Madigan said. “This repeat offender will be punished.”

Madigan is asking the court to impose the maximum fine and imprisonment prescribed by law against Stanley as well as full restitution.