The Pennsylvania attorney general’s office is suing an Idaho man and his business over an alleged spotted lanternfly permit scam.
The Commonwealth is under a quarantine order to address an invasive spotted lanternfly infestation. Certain businesses must get a permit from the Department of Agriculture to help stem the spread.
The AG’s office accuses Kevin Wardell and Diverse Solutions, LLC, of soliciting Pennsylvanians and selling them fake permits and related training.
Wardell allegedly used logos and wording to trick residents, including using the name “Spotted Lanternfly Commission.”
The AG’s office claims Wardell and Diverse Solutions threatened penalties against victims if they didn’t comply.
“Pennsylvania is working hard to stop the spread of invasive species such as spotted lanternflies, but they aren’t the only pests that are harming Pennsylvanians. Scammers peddling fraudulent trainings and fake permits do not help anyone keep their crops safe from this destructive species,” Pennsylvania Attorney General Sunday said. “Legitimate training and permits are available for free through the Department of Agriculture and Penn State Extension.”
Filed in the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas, the lawsuit seeks to ban Wardell and Diverse Solutions from doing business in Pennsylvania and get restitution for victims.
Click here for more information about legitimate spotted lanternfly permits and training.
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