Home / Crime and Justice / NC Venue Owner Scams Brides Out of $1M
NC Venue Owner Scams Brides Out of $1M
11 Jul
Summary
- A North Carolina venue owner pleaded guilty to wire fraud.
- He stole over $1 million from couples and investors.
- He faces up to 20 years in prison for his crimes.
Jason Lottman, 43, formerly owned Champagne Manor, a popular wedding venue in Monroe, North Carolina. On Monday, July 6, he pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud charges. Authorities stated that Lottman orchestrated a scheme between October 2023 and January 2025 to defraud clients and investors of more than $1 million.
Lottman advertised "all-inclusive wedding packages," requiring upfront payments for vendors like caterers and photographers. However, he failed to pay these vendors, forcing customers to pay again for services they had already funded. He also solicited investments by promising ownership or guaranteed returns, making false statements to secure funds.
During foreclosure proceedings in mid-2024, Lottman continued to accept payments while hiding the venue's dire financial state. He misled investors about acquiring a "glass ballroom" for collateral and offered customers "investment-style programs" he could not fulfill. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment for wire fraud.
