Department of Justice Files Lawsuits Against Children's Product Importers

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed two civil action lawsuits, seeking to cease importation and sale of potentially hazardous children's products by two California companies and their owners.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requested that the DOJ file the actions, claiming that the defendants were responsible for importing children's products containing hazardous materials, such as lead, phthalates and small parts. According to the CPSC, the companies and individuals have agreed to settle the lawsuits.

"Companies who do not comply with CPSC's statutes and regulations regarding toys put American children at risk," said Benjamin C. Mizer, principal deputy assistant attorney general and head of the DOJ's Civil Division, in a statement. "Parents have a right to feel confident that the toys their children play with are safe."

The companies allegedly imported items in violation of the CPSC and Federal Hazardous Substances Act. The CPSC alleged that Brighstar Group Inc., Los Angeles, imported products that violated federal standards. During a separate action filed against Unik Toyz Trading Inc, Los Angeles, the CPSC identified 39 samples of children's products that included illegal levels of lead content, and small parts and exposed batteries in toys intended for children younger than 3.

In addition to settling the litigation, the defendants agreed to cease all importation and sale of toys and children's products—unless the CPSC determines that the companies' practices are compliant—and be bound by a consent decree of permanent injunction.