Merced Veterinarian Jimmy Lee Byerly has been ordered to pay $20,000 to the Department of Consumer Affairs following a civil agreement with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office for engaging in unfair business competition.
An investigation revealed Byerly was practicing veterinary medicine from his home and was not authorized by the Board of Veterinary Medicine to do so. By practicing out of an unregistered location, Byerly was avoiding inspections and paying registration fees.
In addition to paying restitution, the agreement with the District Attorney’s Office states he must register the location of his practice; not practice at his home, unless registered with the Veterinary Medical Board; dispose of medical waste appropriately; and display his license at his primary place of business. Byerly’s practice is also subject to inspections by Board representatives.
By following the terms and conditions of the injunction, and after three years, Byerly shall be entitled to have the District Attorney’s Office sign a stipulation setting aside the judgment and dismissing the case with prejudice.
Byerly may face administrative action against his license by the Veterinary Medical Board.
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The Department of Consumer Affairs promotes and protects the interests of California Consumers. Consumers who wish to file a complaint can contact the Department of Consumer at (800) 952-5210. Consumers can also file a complaint online at www.dca.ca.gov.
