A long-time Costco member is taking legal action against the retail giant, alleging that the company unlawfully revoked her membership and refused to refund her fees. On August 26, 2024, Tina Verdun filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, against Costco Wholesale Corporation.
According to the court documents, Verdun has been a loyal Costco member for over 30 years. On August 5, 2024, she renewed her annual membership for $300. The following day, when she attempted to use her membership at a Costco store in Oxnard, California, employees repeatedly refused to honor it despite assurances from customer service that it was valid. The situation escalated when a staff member allegedly told Verdun to "shut up," threw her membership card at her, and called the police to remove her from the store without providing a refund. Verdun was informed by a manager named Jimmy that higher management had banned her from all Costco stores for life.
The lawsuit accuses Costco of breach of contract and theft under Penal Code section 496 for retaining Verdun's membership fee without providing services. It further alleges that Costco engages in a pattern of selling memberships and then denying access without refunds. Verdun claims this conduct caused significant emotional distress and financial loss.
Verdun seeks various forms of relief from the court including actual damages amounting to $100,000, injunctive relief to prevent similar actions by Costco in the future, attorney’s fees, costs associated with the lawsuit, and interest. She also demands punitive damages for what she describes as intentional infliction of emotional distress and unfair business practices.
Representing Tina Verdun is attorney Andre L. Verdun from his law office located in Ventura. The case has been assigned Case ID: 2024CUBT029341 and will be presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California in Ventura County.