BALTIMORE — The Maryland Attorney General's Office (OAG) is going after an Abingdon landscaping company accused of duping customers out of tens-of-thousands of dollars.
Michael Buell was the owner of Residential Lawn and Landscape, LLC, which apparently went out of business in October 2017, however, the company advertised services from 2020 to 2022, according to the OAG.
Buell reportedly offered customers a $240 deal for 24 cuts in a six month period.
According to the OAG, many of those services weren't ever provided, despite requiring up front payments. When reached by customers they were met with rudeness and lies.
On some occasions Buell allegedly took unauthorized secondary payments from customer accounts, without ever reimbursing them.
In May 2022, he sent an email informing customers the company would no longer operate outside of Harford County.
READ MORE: Customers seeking refunds after lawn care company shuts down, says it’s holding payments for 2023
WMAR-2 News' Mallory Sofastaii reported on this company after receiving complaints from customers. At the time, Buell declined an interview, but answered her questions via text message. Buell stated he hasn't raised prices in 9 years and had to make the decision to downsize or go out of business. He then promised to refund all customers in Baltimore and Anne Arundel Counties, which reportedly didn't happen.
The OAG said Buell's actions of false and misleading statements amounted to deceptive and unfair trade practices. They're seeking to force Buell to pay restitution and civil penalties.
The Better Business Bureau's website, reports 70 complaints against Buell's company over a three year period. They were not accredited with the BBB.
“Michael Buell deceived consumers by taking money for landscaping services he never performed," said Attorney General Anthony Brown.
To read the full statement of administrative charges, click here.
