Attorney General's News Release

August 13, 2008

Nixon sues Warsaw man who sold replica Civil War cannons online but didn't provide merchandise or refunds

Warsaw, Mo. - Several consumers from around the country who bought full-scale replica Civil War cannons and parts online from a Warsaw man received neither the merchandise they paid for nor refunds, Attorney General Jay Nixon says.

Nixon today took legal action to obtain restitution for those consumers by filing a lawsuit against John R. Adams, who does business as Missouri Cannon Works. The lawsuit says Adams advertised and sold Civil War-replica ordnance through his Web site and required customers to make advance payments for their orders with personal checks or wire transfers.

At least three consumers who sent Adams payment of as much as $4,250 did not receive the merchandise they ordered. Nixon said Adams ignored consumer inquiries and request for status updates once the consumers ordered and paid for the merchandise, and also has ignored requests for refunds.

The lawsuit, filed in Benton County Circuit Court, asks the court to issue a finding that Adams violated Missouri consumer protection laws and order him to pay restitution to any consumers harmed by his actions. Nixon also wants the court to issue preliminary and permanent injunctions to prohibit Adams from further violations of the law, and to order him to pay appropriate penalties and costs to the state.

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Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818