Lawsuit filed against two gas stations in Harris County for price gouging during Hurricane Beryl

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee announced that a lawsuit has been filed against two gas stations accused of price gouging following Hurricane Beryl.

“The first lawsuit is against BTCM Aviation LLC, Real Estate Chapter Texas LLC and Houston Ventures LLC, which operate a gas station selling Shell fuel located at 5910 W. Loop S., Bellaire, Texas 77401. The gas station sold regular unleaded gasoline for $3.79 and $4.29 per gallon, an increase of 25% and 41%, respectively, over the pre-hurricane price of $3.03. The second lawsuit is against A2S PetroTech LLC, which operate a gas station selling Shell fuel located at 5003 N. Main St., Baytown, Texas 77521. The gas station sold premium gasoline for $5.49 per gallon, a markup of 44% over the pre-hurricane price of $3.80,” Menefee’s office said.

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office received over 250 complaints of price gouging following the hurricane. A team from the District Attorney’s Office investigated these complaints and is working to find a solution if possible.

“My office has worked tirelessly to address the flood of price gouging complaints we have received during this crisis,” Menefee said. “Many businesses have complied with cease-and-desist orders. However, the businesses we are suing today refused to provide information to justify their outrageous price increases. I will continue to protect Harris County consumers from those who would exploit a disaster for profit. This should serve as a clear warning for the future: We will not tolerate this behavior and will take action against anyone who tries to take advantage of our community.”

The Department continues to investigate complaints of price gouging and urges residents to keep receipts and report any suspected price gouging during declared disasters.

You can find more information about reporting price gouging here.