Pa. alarm owner hit with violating “no call” registry

January 20, 2005 HARRISBURG, Pa.—The state’s Attorney General has filed a civil lawsuit against the owner of a Pennsylvania security company for violating the state’s “no call” registry and falsely claiming an affiliation with General Electric and local police departments. The lawsuit is filed against Kenneth Broda, who operates two companies called Guardian Alert and Advanced Concepts of N.Y., Inc. from his home in Dingmans Ferry, Pa. Broda is accused of violating the state’s Telemarketer Registration Act and engaging in unfair trade practices. According to Barbara Petito, deputy press secretary for the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the AG’s office began receiving complaints about the calls in 2003. So far 17 consumers have filed complaints, but Petito expects that to increase. “ There are probably other folks out there who were contacted by this company, but who did not file a complaint,” said Petito. “Any additional complaints that come through will be folded into this litigation.” The consumers reported to the state’s AG’s office that telemarketers told them they were chosen to receive a free home security system and the deal included two free airline tickets. Consumers also said they received the telemarketing calls, even though they registered with the state’s “no call” registry. Petito said Broda’s companies failed to buy the state’s “no call” registry. Neither business name is registered with the state, and they failed to register as a telemarketer at least 30 days prior to engaging in telemarketing activities and properly disclose the company name and the nature of the call. Broda faces civil penalties of $1,000 per violation and $3,000 for each violation that involves a consumer 60 years old or older. Broda could not be reached for comment prior to press time for the Security Systems Newswire.