🚨 When Victim Assistance Becomes Predatory: A Call to Protect Fire Victims in Illinois

Published by: Community Advocate for Consumer Protection | Estimated read time: 5 minutes

In the aftermath of a devastating fire, victims need real support—not sales tactics. Unfortunately, across Chicagoland and the state of Illinois, some board-up companies exploit municipal contracts to gain immediate access to fire victims and aggressively push restoration services. This isn’t help—it’s restoration fraud.

🔍 What Is Legitimate Victim Assistance?

Victim assistance refers to services designed to support individuals impacted by a crime or tragedy. These services help victims recover emotionally, financially, and legally. Examples include:

• Crisis Intervention: Immediate emotional and logistical support post-crisis
• Advocacy: Guidance through the legal process and understanding victim rights
• Financial Aid: Coverage for medical bills, lost wages, relocation, etc.
• Mental Health Services: Counseling and therapy referrals
• Referrals: Legal aid, housing, and social support networks

⚠️ When Assistance Turns Predatory

Victim assistance crosses into predatory behavior when companies exploit victims for profit. Common red flags include:

• Charging outrageous fees for what should be free or low-cost services
• Misleading victims into signing restoration contracts under duress
• Using fear and confusion to force rapid decision-making
• Collecting sensitive personal information without consent
• Preventing victims from exploring legitimate support services

🏛️ Introducing the Burton Bill

We’re drafting and supporting the Burton Bill—a consumer protection initiative designed to hold board-up companies accountable and restore public trust. The bill would:

• Prohibit board-up companies from soliciting restoration services at fire scenes
• Require strict transparency for municipal vendor contracts
• Enforce penalties for violating consumer rights at scenes of emergency
• Create oversight mechanisms for post-disaster service providers

📝 Join the Movement: Sign the Petition

This issue affects all Illinois residents. Fire victims deserve compassion—not contracts. We need your voice to support the Burton Bill and end these predatory practices once and for all.

➡️ Click here to sign the petition and protect fire victims today

📢 Take Action Now

We call on mayors, town presidents, state representatives, and Governor J.B. Pritzker to act now. These unethical practices must stop—and your voice can make the difference.

Let’s restore dignity, compassion, and justice for fire victims across Chicagoland and beyond.