Santa Clara County

San Jose Florist Charged With Defrauding Customers: DA

A San Jose florist has been charged with cheating people out of more than $26,000 after she didn't deliver flowers and other supplies to paying customers, according to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office.

Jasmin Rivera, 37, from Gigi's Florist has been charged with six counts of grand theft in addition to two other unrelated charges, according to the district attorney's office. She pleaded not guilty to the charges. 

"These are events that are special and sentimental," prosecutor Garner Morris said. "They put their trust in her to provide these services and she failed them."

Multiple complaints have been flung at Rivera in the past, according to the district attorney's office. One victim, who did not want to be identified, says she shelled out more than $3,000 for bouquets, boutonnieres, church arrangements and table center pieces. She said only about one-third of her order made it to the church.

"When I go to the church, there’s nothing there," the victim said. "There isn’t the boutonniere, there isn’t the bridesmaid bouquets, there isn’t the decorations for the entire church."

Another family took out loans to host their daughter's Quinceañera, according to the district attorney's office. They paid Rivera roughly $10,000 to cover party necessities such as a DJ and limousine. Rivera failed to provide anything the family asked for, and she told the family to take her to court when they asked for a refund.

Last year, another victim paid Rivera approximately $8,000 for wedding decorations, according to the district attorney's office. No supplies were delivered on the wedding day, and the victim was only refunded $400.

Neighboring florist Sal Rosales was disturbed after learning about the charges.

"(Rivera) should pay for whatever she did," he said. "I'm sorry to hear about that for the other people that got their money stolen."

Rivera could end up behind bars if she is convicted. Prosecutors say they're still looking for more victims to strengthen their case.

Anyone with other information regarding Rivera is asked to contact criminal investigation Christine Macias at 408-792-2822.

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