Auto dealer and AG tussle

As Crabtree Auto Mall reportedly shut down, Connecticut”™s attorney general sued the Shelton dealer for false advertising.

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal claims Crabtree has run 300 misleading advertisements since 2004. The ads promoted low payment terms that were not actually offered, according to Blumenthal, with some ads including testimonials from “phantom” customers who did not exist.

The charges carry a maximum fine of $5,000 for each violation. Blumenthal said he may add other civil or criminal charges.

Crabtree abruptly shut down in late August, according to the Connecticut Post, which stated the company sold its vehicle stock to other dealers.