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real estate agent in California has been charged with price gouging after allegedly raising the rental price of a Glendale home by 50% following the Eaton Fire. Lar Sevan Chouljian, who was arraigned on Monday, is accused of charging more than the permitted 10% increase allowed under state law after the emergency declaration.

    According to prosecutors, a family that had been evacuated from their home due to the fire inquired about renting a property in Glendale, but Chouljian allegedly offered them a price exceeding the list price by over 50%. Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that this behavior is unacceptable and that his office will continue to crack down on price gouging.

    This case follows another real estate agent who was charged last week with raising the rental price of a home in La Canada Flintridge by 38% after the fire. The public is urged to report any suspected cases of price gouging to the Attorney General's Office at oag.ca.gov/report or by calling 800-952-5225.

    A conviction for price gouging can result in up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000.