GIPSA Alleges John Carl Stephens, dba Westbound Livestock Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act
WASHINGTON, April 9, 2008 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that John Carl Stephens (Stephens), doing business as Westbound Livestock, Pinetta, Florida:
- Failed to pay sellers for the sale of their livestock within the time period required by the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act;
- Failed to pay the full purchase price for livestock; and
- Issued checks without having sufficient funds to cover checks.
On April 1, 2008, GIPSA filed a complaint against Stephens. If the allegations are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Stephens may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the P&S Act, suspended and assessed a civil penalty.
Stephens is registered with the Secretary of Agriculture as a dealer to buy and sell livestock in commerce for his own account.
The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.
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Catherine M. Grasso 202-720-7201
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