(KTLA) — State officials announced Friday that Walmart, the nation’s largest retailer, will pay $5.6 million to settle a consumer protection lawsuit accusing the company of overcharging its customers.
According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, Walmart allegedly sold products with less weight than what was shown on the label — including produce, baked goods and other prepared foods or items.
The civil complaint, filed by multiple California counties including San Bernardino County, also accused the retail giant of unlawfully charging customers more than their lowest advertised or posted price.
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“When someone brings an item to the register to be scanned, the price must be right,” said Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen. “They expect it. California expects it. My Office expects it – and we will apply the law to make sure of it.”
Walmart, which operates 280 stores in California, was also sued for overcharging customers in 2012 and paid $2.1 million to settle.
As of this Friday’s announcement, Walmart will again be paying millions — this time $5.5 million in civil penalties, and $139,908.92 to cover the costs of the investigations.
This latest settlement was reached with the DA’s Offices from Santa Clara, San Diego, San Bernardino and Sonoma counties.
