Some protesters claim we charge prices that sound unbelievably high – these reports are false.
Mark Speese, CEO, Rent-A-Center

In response to Friday's protest of two Rent-A-Center locations in Brooklyn (see story), CEO Mark Speese issued the following statement.

"Some protesters claim we charge prices that sound unbelievably high – these reports are false. Rent-A-Center discloses all costs and terms up-front, including the cash price, the amount and timing of payments, and the total of payments. We also disclose how to determine the early purchase option amount as required by New York law. We give New York families choices. Our customers like the freedom and flexibility the rental-purchase transaction provides, which includes delivery, set-up, service and repair at no additional charge. We strongly urge anyone considering a rental to look at the cost disclosures closely and decide for themselves. We have proudly served New York communities for more than 25 years. Families enjoy having high-quality merchandise at prices they can afford and without the risk of debt."

The protest was organized by Bishop Eric Figueroa, pastor of Brooklyn's New Life Tabernacle. According to New York Daily News opinion columnist Errol Louis, the protest was organized after New Life Tabernacle rented a 50-inch flat-screen television so that parishioners could "watch Barack Obama make history." Louis wrote that the group paid $186.72 for a two day rental but Bishop Figueroa was disturbed by the total price listed on the agreement.