KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Customers of Chad Franklin Suzuki cheer the Kansas Attorney General's lawsuit against the business. But, questions are still swirling about the dealership's status.
There are reports the business has been sold. But, the Kansas Department of Revenue says it does not have any records to indicate that. The Department of Revenue says its standard procedure to let the State know immediately of any sale.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General is working on a resolution for the hundreds of victims.
It's the message heard more than 9,000 times. The advertisement claimed that you could drive a free car for life. It's an incredible deal, but when it didn't work, victims Called for Action.
Four months after Call for Action exposed the deception, the Kansas Attorney General finally took action.
"For the first time in months it was yeah," customer Dan Rose said while pumping his fist in the area.
Dan Rose is hopeful the lawsuit against Chad Franklin Suzuki will put money back in his pocket.
"I'd just like to see justice done. I think it will be done. For the first time, I am confident it will be done," Rose said.
Rose is desperate for help. His payments jumped from $49 a month to $527. It's a payment Rose simply can't afford.
"You're thinking I have to pay $527 on a car that isn't worth that. I have to buy groceries and pay the bills too," Rose said.
Rose has tried to explain the situation to his lender, but they still call demanding payment daily. Sometimes he gets calls hourly.
"It's harassing," Rose said. "It is mentally the most draining thing ever because you know the phone call is coming."
And Rose knows the day is coming when his car will be repossessed. It already happened to his daughter, who was also in the program.
"They're wanting the car literally today. They called me this morning," Rose said.
Rose hopes the repossession will eventually be removed from his credit report. It's something the Attorney General is working on, as part of its lawsuit. For now, Rose is thankful a top official is finally taking action.
"I know there are a lot of us out that that owe you a big thanks. We appreciate it," Rose said.
The Missouri Attorney General's investigation is still ongoing. But, again Kansas is helping all 600 plus consumers who took part in this promotion. Some banks are working with consumers, giving them a few months to catch up on their payments, and others are taking back the car.
