Scam Watch
The pitch: We have the ability to live twice as long as we are living today!
The scam: Anthony Paris DeAguero, also known as the Healthman in infomercials and on his website, claimed that his 7 Day Miracle Cleanse -- an herbal colon-cleaning program -- could prevent or cure cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other serious conditions. The $89 program also came with his Parasite and Worm Eliminator.
The charges: In U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, the Federal Trade Commission charged DeAguero and his wife with false advertising and engaging in deceptive acts. The court filing sited 16 health claims for the product that the agency said were false.
The settlement: The agency announced last month that it had reached an agreement with the DeAgueros that bans them from any future involvement with infomercials. The couple also agreed to never again claim -- using any advertising medium -- that a product had health benefits. The settlement stipulated they pay a monetary judgment of more than $14 million, but this was suspended based on the DeAgueros’ claim of inability to pay. They did not admit any wrongdoing. The couple and their Los Angeles company, 7 Day Marketing, did not respond to requests for an interview.
Info: The agency’s warning about “miracle” health claims is at www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/health/hea07.shtm
-- David Colker
