New York Attorney General Letitia James issued letters Wednesday ordering two New York companies, MeToo Kits and Preserve Group, to cease and desist production of at-home sexual assault kits.

Both MeToo Kits and Preserve Group produce and sell at-home kits for the gathering of evidence in sexual assault cases. In her letters, James argued that the two companies’ advertisements caused serious issues, including failing to mention that the tests were available for free in New York and potentially inducing victims to decline valuable medical services.

Pursuant to New York Executive Law § 63(12) and General Business Law § 349, the OAG has the authority to commence legal action to enjoin deceptive, fraudulent or illegal business practices, as well as to obtain restitution, disgorgement, damages, penalties and costs. The OAG is also authorized to issue subpoenas and take testimony prior to any legal proceeding.

Furthermore, James emphasized that a patient, family member or support person should never handle evidence so as not to compromise the quality. For these reasons, James ordered the companies to stop producing and selling the kits.