The Consumer Protection division of the Maryland attorney general's office issued a cease-and-desist order Wednesday to an Anne Arundel County locksmith after consumers complained of exorbitant fees, refusing to give estimates and charging credit cards without prior authorization. The business, ATCL-MD, Inc., Around the Clock Locksmith and its owner Joseph M. Horton are accused of charging as much as $1,400 just to respond to a request for services, and more than $4,300 to replace locks. When reached by phone, Horton declined to comment. About 53 consumers reported the complaints, said Raquel Guillory, a spokeswoman for the attorney general's office. The order requires the locksmith to offer consumers realistic estimates for its services. A hearing has been scheduled June 28.

- Liz F. Kay