C
alifornia Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed charges against a real estate agent accused of price gouging a couple who lost their home in the Los Angeles Eaton Fire. The investigation began when the couple reported being offered a rental property at an inflated price after the Governor's Emergency Order took effect, which protects fire victims from price gouging.

    As part of Bonta's efforts to protect Californians affected by the Southern California wildfires, the Department of Justice has sent 500 warning letters to hotels and landlords accused of price gouging. The office is also conducting active investigations into several other cases of alleged price gouging.

    "We will not tolerate price gouging," said Attorney General Bonta. "We urge the public to report any incidents to local authorities or our office, and we will aggressively pursue those who seek to take advantage of vulnerable individuals."

    The real estate agent allegedly increased the rent by 38% after receiving the couple's application, which is above the 10% limit allowed under Penal Code section 396. The charge carries a maximum penalty of $10,000 in fines and up to 12 months in jail.

    DOJ has been working with local law enforcement partners to investigate price gouging, fraud, scams, and unsolicited low-ball offers on property during the state of emergency. A website dedicated to the department's response to the wildfires is available at oag.ca.gov/LAFires.

    California law prohibits charging prices that exceed certain limits before or after a state or local declaration of emergency. Violators can face criminal prosecution, fines, and civil penalties. The Attorney General and local prosecutors can enforce the statute.

    To report price gouging, scams, fraud, or other crimes, Californians can visit oag.ca.gov/LAfires or call (800) 952-5225. They should include screenshots of correspondence, prices offered, and any other relevant information to help investigators identify and contact the business or landlord involved.