After investigators found evidence of a massive rodent infestation at a Family Dollar distribution center, Arkansas is suing the dollar-store chain.
The lawsuit accuses Family Dollar and parent company Dollar Tree of negligence, deception, and conspiracy, the Associated Press reports. “This misconduct by Family Dollar Stores and Dollar Tree allowed them to maximize profits, while causing Arkansas citizens to purchase hazardous, adulterated and contaminated products," the suit reads.
Arkansas' lawsuit comes after the chain was hit with a federal subpoena. Dollar Tree said it would cooperate by providing all requested information, including records regarding pests and sanitation at the facility.
The investigation prompted the recall of a huge range of products and the temporary closure of more than 400 Family Dollar stores in six states: Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee. “Rodents and rodent activity” forced the chain to pull all drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, dietary supplements, food, and pet food from shelves, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The recall didn't cover products shipped directly to stores, including frozen and refrigerated food.