The Department of Consumer Protection  plans a hearing next month on two companies which claim to help families win pardon or parole for relatives in prison.  Commissioner William Rubenstein says the department has received multiple complaints about “Parole Advocates”  and “Innovative Sentencing Solutions.”

Both companies are run by Christopher Shuckra of Hartford.  Rubenstein says the companies collected from $500 to $2,500 from families in Connecticut and elsewhere,  and received no services for their fee,  and no refunds.

He suggests families reach out to non-profit service agencies instead.

A cease-and-desist and restitution hearing is scheduled next month.  The department also hopes to hear from any other families who may have been taken in by the businesses.