Amazon has defended itself against a lawsuit filed by the District of Columbia alleging that the online retailer “deliberately” and “secretly” stopped delivering to “historically underserved” black communities.
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb alleged in the lawsuit that for more than two years, Amazon had stopped deliveries to up to 50,000 Prime members.
Schwalb alleged that Amazon “covertly decided to limit the ways it delivers packages” to people living in two zip codes—20019 and 20020 east of the Anacostia River—and chose instead to rely on UPS and USPS, which slowed delivery times in these areas, which Census data says are 80 to 90 percent black.
When customers complained about the delays, Schwalb alleged that Amazon was being deceptive when it cited “natural fluctuations in shipping circumstances.”
Schwalb said Amazon has claimed that the change was made to protect its drivers; however, he argued that Amazon is obligated to “be transparent about those decisions” so consumers can make an informed decision about their purchases.
He alleged that Amazon’s actions are in direct violation of the Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA).
“In addition, were Amazon upfront about its exclusion practice, Prime members in the excluded zip codes could explore other options for meeting their basic needs,” Schwalb argued. “This is particularly important for consumers in historically underserved Wards of the District, who time and again receive poorer service based on where they live.”
In an emailed statement to The Epoch Times, an Amazon spokesperson said the claims that the company’s business practices are “discriminatory and deceptive are categorically false.”
“We want to be able to deliver as fast as we possibly can to every zip code across the country; however, at the same time, we must put the safety of delivery drivers first,” Kelly Nantel said.
She said there have been “targeted acts” against Amazon drivers in the zip codes listed in the lawsuit that include “carjacking, vehicle theft, armed robbery, assault, and other forms of gun violence.”
“We made the deliberate choice to adjust our operations, including delivery routes and times, for the sole reason of protecting the safety of drivers,” Nantel said. “And we’re always transparent with customers during the shopping journey and checkout process about when, exactly, they can expect their orders to arrive.”
Nantel said Amazon is willing to work with Schwalb on reducing crime and improving safety in the area. The company is always monitoring safety conditions for “the best interest of our customers, employees, and those who deliver on our behalf.”
