Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s consumer protection hotline has been ringing off the hook, but some calls need to go to local law enforcement.

The hotline system was at a standstill due to an overwhelming number of calls, according to a press release from Nessel’s office Tuesday. In response, the office is reminding Michigan residents to call their local law enforcement offices about concerns related to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order.

Under Whitmer’s order, non-essential businesses must stop calling workers in unless to conduct minimum basic operations. Residents also need to stay at home, except for essential needs.

Failing to comply could result in a $500 fine and/or 90 days in jail, Nessel's office said in the release.

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Though Nessel's office can aid the prosecutors' cases as they move forward, they shouldn't be the first call, according to the release.

The Attorney General’s consumer protection team, designed to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive and fraudulent business practice, is focused on COVID-19-related price-gouging and scams.

The hotline has taken about 1,600 complaints on price-gouging and 13 special agents have been assigned to help attorneys investigate.

“These are incredibly difficult times and we are all in uncharted territory," the office said in the release. "We ask for everyone’s cooperation, understanding and patience as we diligently work to stop COVID-19.”

Contact Darcie Moran: dmoran@freepress.com.