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Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Attorney General James Secures $350,000 From Brooklyn Furniture Store for Cheating Consumers
1StopBedrooms Will Refund Consumers Who Experienced Excessive Delivery Delays, Were Charged Improper Cancelation Fees, or Received Damaged Furniture
New York Attorney General Letitia James announced she secured up to $350,000 from Payless Furniture, Inc. d/b/a 1StopBedrooms, a Brooklyn-based furniture store, for cheating consumers. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) received hundreds of complaints from consumers against 1StopBedrooms for excessive delivery delays, exorbitant cancelation fees, falsely promoting 30-day “hassle-free” returns, and delivery of damaged furniture with no opportunity for a full refund or exchange. As a result of OAG’s investigation, 1StopBedrooms is required to pay restitution to consumers who experienced these issues, in addition to $75,000 in penalties and $2,000 in costs to New York state. 1StopBedrooms will also be required to change its advertising and business practices to protect future consumers.
“No New Yorker should have to pay hundreds of dollars for furniture only to receive it late or damaged,” said Attorney General James. “We are requiring 1StopBedrooms to refund customers who were forced to pay unlawful cancelation fees or could not cancel their order after it was delayed for months. As New Yorkers struggle with the rising cost of living, my office will continue to fight back against companies that try to take advantage of consumers.”
1StopBedrooms is an online furniture store headquartered in Midwood, Brooklyn. The OAG opened an investigation after receiving 270 complaints from consumers detailing issues with deliveries and returns. The OAG’s investigation revealed that 1StopBedrooms advertised furniture on its online store as “in stock” and displayed quick shipping dates, sometimes within 30 days, when the actual delivery dates were in fact much later. 1StopBedrooms did not provide consumers with the legally required notices to inform them of their right to a full refund due to delivery delays.
The investigation further revealed that 1StopBedrooms failed to refund consumers for fees when orders were canceled and charged consumers a 15 percent “restocking” fee plus a return shipping fee of $2.25 per pound on canceled orders or orders that were excessively delayed. Several consumers only received partial refunds, and others did not receive any refunds on canceled orders.
1StopBedrooms also failed to correct orders or help consumers when they received damaged, missing, or incorrect furniture deliveries. The store’s refund policy advertised that consumers had only 24 hours to report damaged furniture to receive a refund. However, 1StopBedrooms failed to adequately repair damaged furniture or respond to consumer complaints. The store also told consumers that they had to withdraw their complaints with the Better Business Bureau or other online review platforms in order to receive a refund.
The settlement with OAG requires 1StopBedrooms to pay $78,810.71 in restitution to 57 consumers who filed complaints with OAG or the Better Business Bureau against 1StopBedrooms. The settlement further requires 1StopBedrooms to pay an additional $206,115.37 to 232 consumers who are eligible for restitution, including those who did not receive a delivery date at the time of purchase or a delivery delay notice, received unwarranted cancelation charges, or received defective or incorrect furniture.
Under New York law, if a seller is unable to deliver non-custom-made furniture by the delivery date or within 30 days of purchase, the company must notify the customer of the delay and any revised delivery dates, and must provide the option to:
- Cancel the contract and receive a full refund;
- Cancel the contract and receive a credit for any deposit;
- Agree to a new delivery date or range of delivery dates; or
- Select a different piece of furniture.
If a customer chooses to cancel the contract and receive a refund, the seller must make the refund within two weeks of the request.
Any consumer who purchased furniture from 1StopBedrooms between January 15, 2019 and January 15, 2025 who believes they may be eligible for restitution is encouraged to email 1stopbedroomsclaims@ag.ny.gov to file a claim before the deadline of August 10, 2026. Attorney General James urges any consumer who experiences issues with online orders or deliveries to contact OAG by calling 1 (800) 771-7755, or submitting a complaint online.
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance - Recognizing the People Who Lend a Trowel to Van Cortlandt Park
The numbers are in!
Last year, VCPA volunteers showed up again and again to care for Van Cortlandt Park. Together, they contributed more than 2,200 hours across forests, wetlands, meadows, and the pond. Thanks to them we planted 1,486+ native plants, managed 20+ invasive species, and logged an amazing 15,000 iNaturalist observations.
That’s the equivalent of $70,000 in hands-on care for the park.
From the Natural Areas to the Learning Garden to the Enslaved African Burial Ground, their impact is everywhere.
Many of these volunteers are also neighbors and longtime supporters. However they show up, they are at the heart of VCPA.
We’re so grateful.
If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, we’d love to have you join us out in the park.
Click here for more information.
Here’s to the people who roll up their sleeves, dig in, and make Van Cortlandt Park stronger every day.
Thank you!
Our Contact Information
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance
80 Van Cortlandt Park South, Ste. E1
Bronx, NY 10463
718-601-1460
http://vancortlandt.org
New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce - Join Us for the 48th Annual Run the Bronx
The NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to invite its members and community to be part of one of the borough’s most enduring traditions—the 48th Annual Run the Bronx, taking place on Saturday, May 2 at Bronx Community College.
For nearly five decades, Run the Bronx has brought together thousands of runners, walkers, families, and community members in celebration of health, wellness, and community pride. As the second oldest race in New York City, it continues to be a powerful reminder of what makes the Bronx strong.
This event is open to all, with a 10K run, 5K run, and 2-mile fitness walk. In alignment with its mission, all K–12 and CUNY students can participate at no cost, ensuring access and opportunity for young people across our borough.
Whether you’re looking to:
Create a team with your organization or business
Volunteer and be part of the experience
There is a place for you at Run the Bronx.
Proceeds from the event support student scholarships at Bronx Community College, helping to create pathways for the next generation of leaders.
We invite you to join us and represent the Bronx.
| RSVP Now |
New York City Hispanic Chamber | 159 E 116th St Second Floor | New York, NY 10029
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Justice Department Reveals the Biden Administration’s Weaponization of Federal Law Against Pro-Life Americans
DOJ Weaponization Working Group Report Outlines Corrective Action Taken to Restore the Public’s Confidence in Lawful Treatment of All Americans
Today, the Justice Department’s Weaponization Working Group published a report detailing the Biden Administration’s weaponization of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. Based on a review of over 700,000 internal records, the report not only details specific ways the Biden Justice Department weaponized federal law, but also outlines the corrective action taken by the current Justice Department to make right the wrongs of the prior administration.
“This Department will not tolerate a two-tiered system of justice,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “No Department should conduct selective prosecution based on beliefs. The weaponization that happened under the Biden Administration will not happen again, as we restore integrity to our prosecutorial system.”
President Trump promised to end the weaponization of the federal government. To many Americans, prosecutions under the FACE Act have been the prototypical example of this weaponization. The Justice Department conducted a thorough review of internal discussions, case files, and prosecutorial decisions under the Act and concludes that the Biden DOJ weaponized the FACE Act in several ways.
- The Biden DOJ closely collaborated with pro-abortion groups to track pro-life activists’ First Amendment activity. Pro-abortion groups—especially the National Abortion Federation, Planned Parenthood, and Feminist Majority Foundation—capitalized on their relationship with the Biden DOJ to gain internal information and push targets for enforcement. These groups compiled evidence and dossiers that ultimately gave rise to search warrants and charges. The Biden DOJ affirmatively asked pro-abortion groups about pro-life individuals’ travel and constitutionally protected advocacy. The Biden DOJ and career attorneys monitored pro-life activists for years before charging them.
- The Biden DOJ’s prosecutors engaged in inappropriate conduct and comments. Prosecutors knowingly withheld evidence that defense counsel requested to prepare an affirmative defense, tried to screen out jurors based on religion, and authorized aggressive arrest tactics instead of allowing pro-life defendants to self-surrender.
- The Biden DOJ helped a pro-abortion group secure funding. The lead prosecutor on each FACE Act prosecution served as a reference on the National Abortion Federation’s application for a private grant. We found no record of ethics approval for the attorney to take an interest in the financial outcome of a party having business before the Biden DOJ.
- The Biden DOJ pursued significantly harsher sentences for pro-life defendants than violent pro-abortion defendants. The Biden DOJ requested an average sentence of 26.8 months for pro-life defendants, compared to 12.3 months for pro-abortion defendants.
- The Biden DOJ violated the rights of Americans through its biased enforcement of the FACE Act. Though the Act was supposed to protect both pro-choice and pro-life facilities, the Biden DOJ provided extensive support to abortion clinics, while ignoring and downplaying vandalism and attacks against pregnancy resource centers.
The Biden DOJ’s actions were wrong. The Trump Administration and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche are committed to rectifying these wrongs by taking the following actions.
- On January 23, 2025, President Trump issued full and unconditional pardons to many of the pro-life Christians unfairly targeted by the Biden DOJ.
- DOJ has settled civil cases to address the injustices and took personnel action against those responsible.
- DOJ leadership has dismissed, with prejudice, three civil lawsuits against pro-life activists: United States v. Connolly, No. 2:24-cv-04467 (E.D. Penn.); United States v. Zastrow, et al., No. 2:24-cv-00576 (M.D. Fla.); United States v. Citizens for a Pro-Life Society, et al., No. 1:24-cv-00893 (N.D. Ohio).
- The Trump DOJ issued a directive that, moving forward, DOJ prosecutors may only bring abortion-related civil actions and prosecutions under the FACE Act in extraordinary circumstances or in cases presenting significant aggravating factors.
- To prepare this report, DOJ reviewed approximately 700,000 internal records. Acting Attorney General Blanche has approved a limited waiver of privileged information to provide the public the opportunity to review the underlying materials.
“The behavior unearthed in this report is shameful,” said Assistant Attorney General Daniel Burrows, Office of Legal Policy. “Lawyers who should have known better withheld evidence, worked to keep committed religious people off juries, and generally allowed the Department of Justice to be used as the enforcement arm of pro-abortion special interests.”
DOJ is committed to prosecuting crime in a manner that is consistent with its mission to uphold the rule of law, to keep our country safe, and to protect civil rights. Should other affected individuals have concerns, DOJ will assess their allegations without fear or favor.
Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Issues Notification of Investigative Findings Regarding Investigation into the Death of Royston Bacchus
New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) is today issuing a Notification of Investigative Findings regarding the investigation into the death of Royston Bacchus, who died on October 5, 2025 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Brooklyn. Upon completion of the investigation into Mr. Bacchus’ death, OSI has concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ use of deadly physical force was justified under the law. A final Investigation Report will follow.
About the Incident
At approximately 9:11 a.m. on October 5, NYPD officers responded to a 911 call at a residence on East 86th Street in Brooklyn. Upon arrival, officers encountered Mr. Bacchus exiting the building. The officers pursued Mr. Bacchus on foot to Coventry Road, where Mr. Bacchus stopped running. Mr. Bacchus was holding a gun. Officers repeatedly commanded Mr. Bacchus to drop the gun, and Mr. Bacchus said “Shoot me,” while continuing to hold the gun. One officer discharged his service weapon, striking Mr. Bacchus. Mr. Bacchus was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a gun at the scene.
Incident Video
The incident was captured on the officer's body-worn camera (BWC).
Still frame from BWC footage showing Mr. Bacchus holding a gun
Gun and bullets recovered at the scene
Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.
In cases where the evidence and legal analysis are clear and the investigation is complete, OSI may issue a Notification of Investigative Findings announcing the conclusion of the investigation. In such cases, OSI will issue the final Investigation Report, as required by law, at a later date.
Governor Hochul Joins Capital Region Leaders to Highlight Let Them Build Agenda and Tour Mixed-income Housing Project Under Construction
Common Sense Reforms to State Environmental Quality Review Act Will Speed Up Building of Housing Localities Want While Preserving Environmental Safeguards
Agenda Will Cut Red Tape That Delays the Building of Critical Infrastructure Like Clean Water, Green Infrastructure and Parks
State Will Establish Clear Timelines for Environmental Review, Standardize and Simplify Review Process, and Expedite Major Projects
Builds on Governor’s Historic Agenda To Address New York’s Housing Crisis and Make the State More Affordable and Livable for All New Yorkers
Governor Kathy Hochul today joined Capital Region leaders on a tour of Sol Apartments, a mixed-income housing project in Troy that is underway to highlight her “Let Them Build” agenda, a series of landmark reforms to speed up housing and infrastructure development and lower costs as part of her 2026 State of the State. This initiative will spur a series of common sense reforms to New York’s State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and executive actions to expedite critical categories of projects that have been consistently found to not have significant environmental impacts, but for too long have been caught up in red tape and subject to lengthy delays. Together, these actions will make it easier to build the housing and infrastructure that localities want and that New Yorkers need.
“New Yorkers know all too well that the cost of rent is too high, and the only way to solve the housing crisis and bring down costs is simple: build more housing,” Governor Hochul said. “That’s why we need to cut red tape and make it easier to build housing in places like Troy faster and more affordably. When communities say yes to housing projects that won’t have an environmental impact, we should fast-track these projects and let them build.”
Sol Apartments, located at 1818 5th Avenue, is a $22 million project that entails the construction of a four-story, 55,000-square-foot building which includes 71 apartments and resident amenities such as a co-working space, lounge, community kitchen and indoor bicycle storage, with 30 percent of the apartments being available to individuals earning 65 percent Area Median Income. The building will be the first all-electric, zero-emission multifamily building in Troy. Sol will utilize geothermal heat pumps for space conditioning and domestic hot water, an air-tight building envelope, continuous insulation, triple pane windows, energy recovery ventilation and a rooftop solar photovoltaic array.
The project is receiving $1 million in funding from New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) through Round 3 of the Buildings of Excellence Competition and $2.6 million from Empire State Development (ESD) through RESTORE NY Round 7.
Today, it is too difficult to build housing and other critical infrastructure in New York: these projects can take as much as 56 percent longer to get from concept to groundbreaking compared to peer states. Longer projects equal higher costs, a challenge that is especially critical in the context of New York’s housing crisis, where the only solution to high costs and scarce homes is to build more housing faster and more affordably than before. Red tape can increase the cost of building a unit of housing in New York City by as much as $82,000. Similarly, burdensome and duplicative requirements delay needed investment in clean water infrastructure, child care centers, and parks.
Helping Our Communities Build Housing
When Governor Hochul took office, she vowed to tackle the housing crisis and bring down costs by building the housing that New Yorkers desperately need so that more hard working households and families can afford a place to call home. However, too much critically-needed housing development is forced to navigate a web of red tape created by duplicative state mandates that can add unnecessary costs and years of needless delays, despite such housing development consistently being found to have no significant adverse environmental impacts. Studies have shown that State-mandated environmental review can slow down housing projects by an average of two years, and add hundreds of thousands of dollars of additional costs, at a time when New Yorkers can least afford to wait for the housing they need to continue to live and thrive in New York.
To speed up the development of housing to create a more affordable and sustainable New York, Governor Hochul has proposed to amend the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) to exempt from SEQRA review certain types of housing that have no significant adverse impacts on the environment. Housing exempted from SEQRA will still be required to comply with crucial State environmental protections governing water use, air quality, and protection of natural resources. The proposal does not supersede local zoning and other state and local permitting requirements, and exempted housing also must be located outside of flood risk areas in order to qualify
Years of experience in both New York City and across the state, involving more than a thousand projects, has shown that virtually none of such projects ultimately were found to have significant environmental impacts, but nevertheless were still subject to lengthy and duplicative reviews. Governor Hochul’s reforms will cut red tape to accelerate the delivery of much needed housing and reduce the cost of building in ways that are consistent with sustainable and environmentally-protective development, driving down the cost of housing and rents across the state while protecting our natural resources.
Accelerating Critical Infrastructure Projects That New Yorkers Depend On
Governor Hochul also has proposed to facilitate the speedier, cheaper delivery of a broad range of beneficial infrastructure projects that New Yorkers depend on. Specifically, the Governor has proposed to adjust SEQRA’s classifications to exempt the following important categories of infrastructure that meet specific environmentally-protective criteria from additional SEQRA review to start serving New Yorkers faster:
- Clean Water Infrastructure: Critical water infrastructure that avoids impacts to natural resources.
- Green Infrastructure: Nature-based storm water management.
- Parks and Trails: Public parks and recreational bike/pedestrian paths
- Child Care: New or renovated child care centers
Governor Hochul’s proposal would reserve these fast-track environmental review processes for only infrastructure that would be located at previously disturbed areas, protecting our natural resources and undisturbed lands, while strengthening our neighborhoods. The Governor’s approach would yield tangible environmental benefits including improved air and water quality, and the preservation of critical habitats when compared to policies which encourage sprawl and unchecked development of natural areas.
Currently, SEQRA review timelines vary greatly across projects, creating unpredictability for local communities, project sponsors, and state agencies alike. To cut through the red tape, Governor Hochul has proposed to do the following to expedite review when SEQRA applies:
- Deliver faster decisions for local communities by setting clear timelines for environmental impact statements and driving accountability
- Streamline some environmental impact statements to cut down on review timelines for key categories of projects
- Modernize New York’s permitting processes to save time and money for localities by improving processes and utilizing new technologies
- Expedite major state infrastructure projects to serve New Yorkers faster
- Support local communities through a new permitting academy
