In Wichita, Kansas, a significant event has unfolded that has far-reaching implications for the local car dealership industry. The Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office has taken a firm stand against a Wichita car dealership, Carnation LLC, due to a series of deceptive practices.

Uncovering the Deceptive Practices of a Wichita Car Dealership

Consumer Complaint Leads to a Massive Judgment

A consumer complaint served as the catalyst for a nearly $400,000 judgment against the Wichita car dealership. The Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office revealed that the owner of Carnation LLC, Kayode Ajibolade (also known as Olukayode I. Ajibolade), was accused of engaging in deceptive acts and willfully violating a previous consent judgment under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). The details are astonishing. After purchasing a car, a consumer discovered an airbag simulator device that concealed the fact that the airbag had been deployed. Further investigation by the Consumer Protection Division found 12 more cars sold by Ajibolade and Carnation in the first quarter of 2023 with blown airbags. And yet, these crucial details were not disclosed when the cars were sold from the dealership's lot at 1301 E. Lincoln.This isn't an isolated incident. In 2019, Carnation LLC had already entered into a prior consent judgment with the DA's Consumer Protection Division, admitting to being deceptive by failing to disclose a blown airbag. The current case is a clear continuation of these unethical practices.

The Court's Rulings and Consequences

The court's findings were severe. In April, it was determined that Carnation's sales of 13 cars with undisclosed and concealed blown airbags constituted willful violations of the 2019 consent judgment and the KCPA. As a result, the dealership was ordered to pay $2,000.00 per car in restitution to each of the 12 consumers, totaling $24,000.00. This restitution was later paid by the dealership's bonding company. Additionally, Carnation was ordered to pay $390,000.00 in civil penalties, along with court costs and investigation fees.In the latest default judgment entered against Ajibolade on Nov. 22, he was found to be personally liable, "jointly and severally" with Carnation LLC, for the remaining balance of the judgment, $394,197. This led to the court's decision to revoke Ajibolade's license to do business and permanently prohibit him from selling cars in Kansas.

Buyer Beware: Tips for a Safe Car Purchase

In a news release on the judgment against Carnation LLC and its owner, Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett emphasized the importance of buyer caution. He reminded buyers to exercise care when shopping for a used vehicle. Since devices can be used to conceal that a car is missing functioning airbags, even if inspected by a mechanic, it is crucial to also examine a Carfax or similar history of the vehicle before purchase. This can help identify accidents that may have resulted in the deployment of airbags.In addition, Bennett recommended that consumers perform a general online search of the VIN number of a prospective car purchase. This simple step can often reveal photos of prior damage to the car, providing valuable insights for a safe and informed purchase.