September 7, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that an investigation conducted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the Clinton Township Police Department has resulted in multiple felony and misdemeanor charges being filed against the operators of the Fast Track gas station in Macomb County.
 
“This type of flagrant abuse will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Granholm said.  “We will use every means available to ensure consumers are getting what they pay for.  I applaud our state inspectors who answered the call and effectively stopped these operators from cheating more consumers.”
 
The investigation into Fast Track was initiated by MDA staff as a result of a consumer complaint to the MDA Fuel Line in June 2005.  State inspectors confirmed the allegations of a short measure complaint.  Further investigation revealed illegal modifications had been made to the unleaded regular meters by the installation of counterfeit gears. As a result, customers were being shorted each time they went to the pump.  The pumps were condemned, the counterfeit gears were confiscated as evidence, and legal gears were installed under the direct supervision of the MDA staff.
 
“This was an exceptionally coordinated effort between our offices, the Clinton Township Police Department, and the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office,” said MDA Director Mitch Irwin.  “We stand firm in our commitment to continue maintaining the integrity of the retail gasoline stations in Michigan.”
 
In addition, Irwin indicated the department’s intent to revoke the retail gasoline station operator’s licenses for the individuals involved.  “The operation of a gas station, especially during this period of escalating prices, carries with it a public trust. Those who violate that trust do not deserve to remain in business,” he said.
 
In August, Granholm requested that Irwin transfer staff internally to increase inspections at gas stations and announced that the MDA would use $1.3 million appropriated by the Legislature to hire additional inspectors.  In addition to increased inspections, the Governor called for legislation to require that gas station operators prove their pumps have been calibrated and are working properly when they apply for renewal of their operator’s license.  State law requires that licenses are renewed annually.
 
“Nearly 14 million gallons of gas are sold each day in Michigan,” said Granholm.  “Getting shortchanged, even unintentionally in small amounts at the pump, adds up to real costs for Michigan families.”