The civil complaint alleges Defendants overcharged nearly every family who entrusted Kraft or McNary’s with the final arrangements for their deceased loved ones. The complaint also alleges Defendants engaged in routine misconduct in the sale and administration of preneed insurance, which individuals can purchase so their future funeral expenses are pre-paid. Image by Carolyn Booth from Pixabay

YOLO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - A civil enforcement action was filed by the Yolo County District Attorney’s Consumer Fraud Division on Aug. 29 against Kraft Brothers Funeral Directors and McNary’s Chapel, and their owners Paul and Lailene Wiggins.

The civil complaint alleges Defendants overcharged nearly every family who entrusted Kraft or McNary’s with the final arrangements for their deceased loved ones. The complaint also alleges Defendants engaged in routine misconduct in the sale and administration of preneed insurance, which individuals can purchase so their future funeral expenses are pre-paid.

The investigation originated from consumer complaints by local families who alleged serious mistreatment by Defendants. Investigation of those complaints led to a broader inquiry into Defendants, which revealed evidence of pervasive violations of consumer protection laws.

Through this enforcement action, the People seek restitution for hundreds of consumers who were victims of Defendants’ fraud and misrepresentations, as well as civil penalties and injunctive relief to protect against future abuses.

Every person who makes final arrangements for a loved one deserves to be treated with dignity, and to do business with an ethical and law-abiding provider. There is no excuse for taking advantage of grieving families, and we are committed to seeking justice for consumers who were mistreated.

Members of the public who have information about potential consumer fraud can contact the Consumer Fraud and Environmental Protection Division of the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office by email, [email protected] or phone 855-496-5632.