In a significant development at Vancouver Mall, BH28 Skincare Consultants has permanently closed its doors following an extensive investigation into allegations of predatory sales practices and financial exploitation of customers, particularly targeting elderly clients.
The closure comes in the wake of a KOIN 6 News investigation that exposed numerous complaints from women who claimed they fell victim to aggressive sales tactics, resulting in substantial financial losses. The situation reached a critical point with the arrest of the business owner, Hai Baranetz, who allegedly attempted to persuade a 75-year-old woman to withdraw $50,000 from her bank account under the pretense of becoming a company spokesmodel. While Baranetz was released on bail, the incident triggered increased scrutiny of the business’s practices.
The physical evidence of BH28’s departure is stark: their retail location now stands completely vacant, with its signage removed and windows obscured. Additionally, two associated kiosks, which reportedly worked in conjunction with the main store to attract customers, have been completely dismantled and removed from the mall premises.
Vancouver Police Department officials have confirmed their active involvement in the investigation, revealing that they executed a search warrant at the establishment and seized various business records. However, they emphasized that the store’s closure was not a direct result of police action.
When approached for comment, Vancouver Mall’s general manager provided a measured response: “Vancouver Mall is aware of the situation. Per our corporate policy, we do not publicly disclose information about individual tenant leases or business practices. However, the shopping center is assisting the Vancouver Police Department as they investigate the matter. Because this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide additional information.”
The timing of the closure is particularly noteworthy, as it occurred shortly after Baranetz’s legal representative had assured KOIN 6 News of the existence of satisfied, repeat customers. Subsequent attempts to reach the attorney for clarification on the sudden closure have gone unanswered, leaving many questions unresolved about the future of the business and potential remedies for affected customers.