USDA cites Texas company for failure to provide access to records

WASHINGTON, April 10, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has suspended the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) license of Bucks Fresh Produce LLC, McAllen, Texas, for failing to make its records available for review.

The firm violated the PACA by refusing to allow inspection of its records as part of an ongoing investigation under the PACA. As a result of this action, the suspension will remain in place until the records are made available. During the suspension, Bucks Fresh Produce LLC may not operate subject to PACA.

The company’s principals, Christopher Torres and Diana Torres, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee during the suspension.

The PACA Division, which is a part of AMS’ Fair Trade Practices Program, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to the PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.

In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,500 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 7,800 callers with issues valued at approximately $148 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.

For further information, contact Travis M. Hubbs, Chief, Investigative Enforcement Branch, at (202) 720-6873, or by email at PACAInvestigations@usda.gov.

Contact Info:
Public Affairs
PA@usda.gov
(202) 720-8998
Release No.: 066-20