Verizon forced to pay $175 fee for a defective product internet, tucson, kansas city, bloomington, Internet

As Verizon claims that they have the best coverage and up to date technology, I bought a Verizon mobile hotspot device for my dad as a Christmas gift.  The store manager stated that it was activated and functional, and that he (dad) should have no trouble using it.  Afer receiving it, my dad tried to use it but none of his devices would recognize the hotspot. He went a local Verizon store to troubleshoot it. The store workers were extremely unhelpful. They did not fix the problem at all and refused to exchange the device or offer any help in what to do.  He left the store with this defective device very upset. He returned the device to me, stating he did not want to do any further business with Verizon after this unprofessional treatment.

I called Verizon on a Saturday, and was told initially that they could probably waive the early termination fee since the device had not been used, but I would have to call back Monday. I called Verizon on Monday, and was passed from one service rep to another, wasting over an hour.  Finally, the service rep at their "customer loyalty" department claimed I still have to pay the $175 early termination fee even though the device is defective, has not been used and can not ever be used.  The rep refused to work with me or compromise on the fee regarding the situation. They clearly have the power to negotiate with the customer, but refuse to. How would anyone feel if they were treated poorly, got sold a defective device but still have to pay at the end?

 Even though I 'm out $175, at least I 'm not a stuck on a 2 year contract with this company. I 'm using this as a lesson and will never be a a Verizon customer. They are clearly dishonest and greedy.
You have been warned.