Couple claims seller falsified wreck history for truck

GALVESTON - Alexander and Janet Harris are suing Texas Truck Sales, Gillaspia Investment Group and Michael Gillaspia Jr. for selling them what they claim is a defective pickup truck.

The Harrises' suit, filed Aug. 13 in Galveston County District Court, alleges "the defendants took advantage of the plaintiffs' lack of sophistication in used vehicle purchases" on Feb. 24, 2009, when the complainants purchased a 2003 Ford F-150.

According to court papers, the defendants assured the plaintiffs that the vehicle in question had not been wrecked, was in good shape and did not have no known problems.

The Harrises claim they were given a reportedly positive CarFax report that bolstered the defendants' claims.

Both parties entered into a sales contract, and the plaintiffs purchased the truck for approximately $20,000. The price included an extended warranty.

According to the complaint, the Harrises later learned that the defendants purchased the vehicle at a frame damage auction. The plaintiffs also claim the front end of the truck was replaced because of heavy collision damage, and the engine was merely a substitute.

The suit asserts the Harrises would not have bought the vehicle had the correct damage history been disclosed.

"Due to the frame damage, engine issues, and improper welding, the vehicle is unsafe to use and its value has been reduced to salvage value," the original petition says.

Consequently, the plaintiffs seek unspecified monetary damages.

They are represented by attorney Dan Krieger of League City.

The case has been assigned to Galveston County 122nd District Court Judge John Ellisor.

Case No. 10-cv-2271