Chaparral Fruit Sales Inc. Cited by USDA for PACA Violations
WASHINGTON D.C. - The USDA has cited San Antonio, TX based Chaparral Fruit Sales for failure to pay $738,006 in debts to seven produce sellers, a violation of PACA law.
As a result of this citation Chaparral Fruit Sales is barred from doing business in the produce industry until June 3, 2016 after which it will become eligible to apply for a new PACA license. In addition, Amadeo C. Lopez, Chaparral's principle, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until that same date. After June 3rd a company may employ him with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.
USDA is required to publish the finding that a business has committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of the PACA as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA-approval.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims filed under PACA involving more than $87 million. This is just one more way USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
