Charly's

In May, 2001, the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair (BEAR) conducted a sting operation on this company and it's principal, Charly Bessis, which was prompted by customer complaints. Undercover investigators ran VCR's and and a TV through the shop to see if State consumer protection standards were being followed. The defendent entered into a plea agreement on May 24, 2001 in Riverside County Superior Court, pleading guilty to violations of the Business & Professions Code for failing to provide written estimates. Two other counts, failure to record invoices; and failure to return replacement parts were dismissed. The court imposed punishment of a 30 day license suspension, two years probation, and a fine of $400. The Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair provides safeguards to California consumers in their transactions for repairs of electronic equipment and major home appliances, as well as for the installation of home antennas, including satellite antennas, and auto radios and stereos. The Bureau also administers the Electronic and Appliance Repair Dealer Registration Law, and has authority to establish regulations to carry out this law. For more information about BEAR, consumers may call (916) 445-4751 or check out the Consumer Affair's website at www.dca.ca.gov.