WASHINGTON, D.C. - Three PACA violators in Arkansas and Texas have been restricted from operating in the produce industry, according to a USDA press release.
Twin City Produce of Springdale, a Springdale, AR based company, failed to pay a $7,778 award in favor of a Texas seller. Travis F. Sharum was listed as a member of the business.
Freshpack Distribution, a McAllen, TX based company, failed to pay a $129,324 award in favor of a Colorado seller. Virginio R. Moreno was listed as the sole proprietor of the business.
Sun Belt Commodities Inc., a Houston, TX based company, failed to pay a $10,158 award in favor of an Arizona seller. James C. Lai was listed as the officer, director, and major stockholder of the business.
In the past three years, the USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims under the PACA involving more than $87 million. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed or affiliated with any PACA licensee without the approval of the USDA. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), PACA Division, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses operating subject to PACA.
