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Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy today provided an update on the situation surrounding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and announced a State of Emergency and a new partnership aimed at preventing price gouging and fraud. In making the announcement he was joined by Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple, Sr., Albany County District Attorney David Soares and United Way of the Greater Capital Region President and CEO Peter Gannon.

There is now a current total of five confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Albany County. Additionally, at this time, there are 75 individuals under mandatory quarantine and 47 individuals under precautionary quarantine. Amid reports throughout New York State of price gouging of basic necessities and fraudulent products sold as “cures” for COVID-19, United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline will be used to report and track any such instances.

“While we try to tamp down on the panic that exists throughout our communities, those who attempt to exploit that fear as we confront the spread of COVID-19 need to be held accountable,” said County Executive McCoy. “With this new partnership, we’re making it clear that fraud and price gouging won’t be tolerated. Additionally, while the State of Emergency is in effect, we will be able to quickly move funds and resources where necessary to protect county residents.”

“In times like these we often see the best of humanity displayed by friends and neighbors helping each other. Unfortunately, we also see fraudsters seeking to exploit consumers’ concerns during times of uncertainty for their own financial benefit. We urge consumers to beware of scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic and report any suspected price gouging on items. Anyone who has observed a significant price increase in necessary consumer food and health items as well as medical supplies and services should dial 2-1-1. I am thankful for the incredible leadership at our state and local level in meeting this crisis head on," said District Attorney Soares.

"Thank you to County Executive McCoy for his leadership as our community contends with the implications of COVID-19.  We are strongest when we come together and today's announcement sends a clear message that the health of County Residents are priority number one and we cannot allow anyone to try and take advantage and capitalize off of this crisis," said  Peter Gannon, President & CEO of United Way of the Greater Capital Region.

Residents looking to report price gouging and fraud can also use the online form at the below link:

https://211ny4regions.communityos.org/price-gouging-ne