Montgomery, AL – Attorney General Steve Marshall announced today the execution of a temporary restraining order against AKME Group, LLC and AKME, LLC (collectively known as AKME Gardens), as well as individuals Adam Karsten Morck and Kristina Nis Dias. The legal action follows allegations that the company falsely claimed certification to sell nursery plants and other agricultural products, violating the Alabama Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
According to the Attorney General’s complaint, AKME Gardens misrepresented its certification status and accepted payment from consumers without delivering the promised products. The complaint states that the business has not been certified by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries to sell nursery stock since September 30, 2022, and has lacked certification to sell seeds for at least the past three years.
Attorney General Marshall emphasized the broader impact of the company’s alleged actions, stating that misrepresentations about agricultural certification could introduce harmful plant pests and negatively affect the state’s agriculture industry.
The complaint outlines a total of 37 alleged violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Of these, 24 violations pertain to false claims about certification to sell nursery products and seeds, while 13 relate to accepting payments without fulfilling orders. The Attorney General’s Office has received consumer complaints dating back to 2021, indicating that the company’s alleged deceptive practices affected customers across the United States.
The State’s legal action seeks restitution for affected consumers, a halt to all business operations in Alabama, civil penalties, and attorney fees. The Attorney General’s Office also acknowledged the Silverhill Police Department for its assistance in the case.
Consumers who believe they have been affected by AKME Gardens are encouraged to report their experiences to the Attorney General’s Office.
