Hardin Swindled Schools, Churches Out of $172K+

BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, OH – Christopher M. Hardin, 37, of Strongsville, Ohio, is facing federal charges after allegedly running a brazen scheme to defraud companies, churches, and schools out of approximately $172,964. Hardin, the owner of American Safety Surface & Recreation LLC (ASSR), allegedly pocketed deposits for playground renovations and installations he never intended to complete, leaving a trail of broken promises and financial ruin.

According to a criminal information filed in federal court, Hardin established ASSR in 2011, operating across multiple states including Ohio, New Jersey, Iowa, California, New York, Texas, and more. Between September 2011 and November 2016, Hardin systematically took deposits from unsuspecting clients, promising playground upgrades that never materialized. The indictment details a pattern of deception, with Hardin allegedly misrepresenting the use of funds, project timelines, and reasons for delays.

The scope of Hardin’s alleged fraud extends beyond unfulfilled contracts. He is also accused of ordering $261,083 worth of playground equipment and materials from OTS Company in South Carolina without making payment. Further, Hardin allegedly failed to pay MJD’s Property Solutions, LLC, $270,127 for subcontracted playground renovation and installation work. The Department of Justice alleges Hardin diverted client funds for personal expenses, including a vehicle, restaurant and bar tabs, and unrelated clothing purchases.

The list of victims paints a stark picture of Hardin’s alleged greed. Plainview Co-Op Nursery School lost $28,755, while Hudson Valley SportsDome, Inc. was defrauded of $28,380. Religious institutions weren’t spared either, with Saint Bellarmine Church losing $21,375 and St. Stephan of Hungary School in New York City out $18,450. Other victims include St. Paul Lutheran Church & School in Utah ($6,550), the Domestic Violence and Child Advocacy Center in Cleveland ($15,900), Norbeck Montessori in Maryland ($6,000), and multiple schools and organizations across several states, totaling losses exceeding $172,000.

Hardin has been charged with one count of mail fraud. If convicted, his sentence will be determined by the court, considering factors such as his criminal history and role in the offense. However, prosecutors emphasize that an information is merely an accusation, and Hardin is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Kall. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. This is yet another example of how vulnerable institutions and communities are to predatory schemes, and the need for robust federal prosecution of white collar crime.