Issue Date:  -  Friday, 30 July 2004

Unlicensed Travel Agent Continues Activities

Travel Fraud Referred To Police

Marangaroo woman Marilyn Rita Degrussa (a.k.a. Marilyn Smith) is once again in the spotlight of Consumer Protection for continuing her alleged unlicensed selling of travel products, after being formally charged on July 19th.

The Police Major Fraud Squad is now investigating.

"We are very disappointed to learn that Ms Degrussa has not ceased her unlicensed trading following her dealings with our officers and subsequent charging.

"There is strong evidence that a big shortfall in funds is going to see people out of pocket.

"We owe it to the community to again warn people not to give Ms Degrussa any money for travel services as the chances are extremely high that there will be no service or refund", Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

Consumer Protection officers have been left with no option other than to consider laying further charges relating to the additional money taken by Ms Degrussa.

The maximum penalty for trading as an unlicensed travel agent is 12 months imprisonment, a $50,000 fine or both.

"Consumers who have paid Ms Degrussa and have not received confirmed travel arrangements or a refund need to contact us immediately", Mr Walker said.

Consumer Protection can be contacted by telephoning 1300 30 40 54 or consumer@docep.wa.gov.au . Complaints can also be laid with the Major Fraud Squad by telephoning 9220 0700.