PHILADELPHIA – A New Jersey construction company owner was charged with a serious crime, leaving many questions unanswered. Douglas Kremer, 52, of Bloomingdale, NJ, was charged by Information with wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud the University of Pennsylvania, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.
Kremer, as the owner of Accent Construction, provided construction and renovation services to the Sheraton University City Hotel, which is owned by the University of Pennsylvania. According to the information, between March 2013 and April 2013, Kremer was instructed by Co-conspirator 1, Kenneth Kapikian, charged elsewhere, to sign over Sheraton University City Hotel checks to him as kickbacks for a construction contract.
Kremer’s scheme, if successful, would have resulted in significant financial losses for the University of Pennsylvania. It’s unclear at this time what the total amount of the scheme was, but authorities are working to determine the extent of the damage.
If convicted, Kremer faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Melanie Babb Wilmoth. An Information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The University of Pennsylvania has not commented on the matter, but it’s likely that the administration will be looking into the situation to ensure that any potential wrongdoing is addressed.
The Kremer case is a reminder that even those in positions of power and influence can be held accountable for their actions. It’s a stark reminder that no one is above the law.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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