Attorney General's News Release

October 4, 2005

Nixon files lawsuit against “Clock Doctor” for shoddy workmanship, failure to return merchandise

St. Louis, Mo. — A self-proclaimed "clock doctor" — who seemingly didn't have the time to perform repairs as promised, or even return clocks and watches to their owners — is the target of a lawsuit filed in St. Louis County Circuit Court by Attorney General Jay Nixon.

Vladimir Rubehzhin, of the 10000 block of Corbeil, St. Louis, is alleged to have accepted clocks and watches for repair from at least 24 consumers. He has done business as Clock and Watch Doctor, 15813 Manchester Road, Ballwin, and Clarkson Clock Doctor, 8405 Olive Road, St. Louis. More recently, he accepted items for repair from his St. Louis apartment.

According to the lawsuit, consumers left their merchandise with Rubehzhin expecting it to be repaired, but then Rubehzhin would not return the merchandise. Rubehzhin twice closed and relocated his place of business without notifying consumers, or letting them know when and where they could pick up their property. The lawsuit further alleges that in those instances where property was returned, the repairs were "in a shoddy, unworkmanlike manner."

"Consumers entrusted their antiques and family heirlooms to this man, with full expectation they would be returned repaired, and in a timely manner," Nixon said. "In at least two dozen cases, they received neither. The clock has run out on Mr. Rubehzhin, and it's high time he answered to his actions."

Nixon is asking the court to order Rubehzhin to return all clocks, watches and other items left for repair to their owners, and provide refunds and restitution as necessary. He is also asking for monetary penalties of $1,000 per violation, plus 10 percent of total restitution ordered.

Take the Attorney General's Consumers Take Action

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

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