Rochester Area Cemetery Business Sued

Attorney General Spitzer today announced he has filed a lawsuit against a cemetery monument business accused of taking consumer deposits and failing to fulfill orders for grave markers.

The lawsuit, filed in the Monroe County Supreme Court, alleges that William S. Yager, the owner of Hampton Memorials, Inc. of Pittsford, repeatedly accepted deposits and advance payments, and then failed to deliver ordered items. Yager also refused to make refunds to consumers, failed to honor warranties and guarantees of workmanship, and ignored court-ordered judgments against him.

"These business practices would be troublesome under any circumstances, but they are especially so when people are suffering the loss of a loved one," Spitzer said. "We are determined to use whatever means necessary to make restitution to the families victimized by this business owner."

In one case in December 1996, a consumer paid Yager a down payment of $1,250 toward the purchase of a $3,000 granite monument. At the time of purchase, Yager promised to deliver and erect the monument by Spring 1997. To date, Yager has failed to deliver the monument to the designated cemetery and has failed to refund the deposit.

The lawsuit seeks full refunds for consumers as well as civil penalties. It also would prohibit Yager from operating a cemetery memorial business unless he posts a $100,000 bond with the Attorney General's Office and would direct him to pay any outstanding judgments.

This case is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Carlos Rodriguez of the Rochester Regional Office.

Any individual interested in finding out more about this case or who would like to file a complaint against Yager and his company is encouraged to contact the Attorney General's office at (800) 771-7755 or visit his web site at www.ag.ny.gov.