Ohio sues chain for consumers

COLUMBUS (AP) -- Ohio authorities sued Best Buy Co. Inc. on Thursday, alleging the electronics retailer engaged in unfair and deceptive business practices.
Ohio Attorney General Jim Petro said his office has received hundreds of complaints over several years, the most common allegations being that the retailer repackaged used goods and sold them as new and failed to honor rebates, refund and exchange programs, and extended service contracts.
"The sheer number of complaints coupled with the types of allegations my office received prompted us to file this lawsuit," Petro said in a statement.
The complaint, filed in state court, asks a judge to order Best Buy to comply with Ohio's consumer protection laws, reimburse customers who lost money and pay a civil penalty of $25,000 for each violation of the state's Consumer Sales Practices Act.
Richfield, Minn.-based Best Buy declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing a policy against discussing pending litigation.
"We are aware of the lawsuit filed, and we currently are investigating the claims," spokesman Jay Musolf said. The company operates about 750 stores in the United States and Canada.
Best Buy shares gained 66 cents to close at $48.48 Thursday on the New York Stock Exchange.
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