Settlement Reached with Seaford Gas Station in Price Gouging Probe

A Seaford gas station has reached a settlement with New York State after being probed for price gouging in the wake of Hurricane Sandy last fall, Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced Thursday afternoon.

The Citgo on 3818 Sunrise Highway, Seaford was one of 25 service stations who have reached monetary settlements with the state as part of Schneiderman’s ongoing investigation of high gasoline prices in the days following the Oct. 29 superstorm.

Schneiderman said the Seaford Citgo had a price spread jump of 48 percent and charged $4.59 per gallon following the storm.

The owner of the Seaford Citgo declined to comment on Thursday’s announced settlement.

In addition to settlements with 25 service stations, Schneiderman also announced Thursday lawsuits being filed against four other gas operators including nearby BP on 900 North Broadway in Massapequa. The area gas station is accused of having a price spread increase of 51 percent and charging $4.29 a gallon after Sandy.

“Six months ago this week, as New Yorkers were sitting in lines waiting for hours to buy critical supplies of gasoline, some shady business owners were trying to make a fast buck at their expense,” said Schneiderman in a statement. “Today, we are sending a powerful message that ripping off New Yorkers during a time of crisis is against the law and we will do everything in our power to hold them accountable.”