Rhode Island’s Attorney General, Peter F. Neronha, announced on January 26, 2024, that legal action has been taken against King Philip Motors, a Bristol-based car dealership, for alleged deceptive sales and advertising practices. The lawsuit, filed on January 25, 2024, in Rhode Island Superior Court, accuses the dealership and its managers, Neil and Tammy DeAlmeida, of violating the state’s consumer protection law.
The Attorney General contends that King Philip Motors engaged in the sale and promotion of unsafe motor vehicles, specifically by failing to obtain required state safety inspections and window stickers before offering vehicles for sale. This practice is identified as a violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA).
The complaint stems from a consumer complaint lodged with the Attorney General’s Office. According to the complainant, issues arose immediately after purchasing a GMC Acadia from King Philip Motors, culminating in a breakdown the next day, with the vehicle stalling at a traffic light. Allegedly, Mr. DeAlmeida, instead of taking responsibility, blamed the consumer and even became verbally abusive. Subsequent investigations by the Division of Motor Vehicles revealed a failing engine, prompting the dealership to repurchase the vehicle.