Father & Son Movers settles charges

Billerica-based Father and Son Moving and Storage agreed to pay up to $202,000 to settle charges of holding customers' goods hostage to collect inflated fees, the state attorney general's office said.

“Consumers place their faith in moving companies, entrusting them with their most valuable possessions and hard-earned money,” Attorney General Martha Coakley said. “This settlement protects consumers from further harm, provides them restitution, and requires that this business will operate honestly and fairly from now on.”

In addition to the company, defendants company president Bryan Taylor, company treasurer Keith Taylor, and PR Taylor Enterprises, LLC,

The attorney general's office took Father and Son to court in October, accusing the firm of running ads that "falsely promised reliable, customer-focused service and low estimates of fees to induce consumers to contract for their services." Once the company secured the business, it would then demand more money before it would release consumers' belongings.

Of the maximum of $202,000, Father and Son must pay $75,000 in consumer restitution.
Another $110,000 in penalties is due to the state, with $50,000 of that suspended. The company would have to pay that additional amount if it violates the terms of the settlement. The company also had to pay additional fees and costs.

You can find more information about moves within Massachusetts here.