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Jason Lottman, the 43-year-old owner of Champagne Manor, a popular wedding venue in Monroe, North Carolina, pleaded guilty to wire fraud for defrauding customers and investors out of over $1 million. From October 2023 to January 2025, Lottman orchestrated a scheme to solicit investments and payments from customers and investors by making false statements and promises. Lottman’s scheme involved marketing all-inclusive wedding packages that required customers to pay upfront for vendors, which he then failed to pay, leaving customers to cover the costs themselves.
Lottman’s fraud scheme continued even after Champagne Manor defaulted on its mortgage and foreclosure proceedings began in mid-2024. Despite knowing the venue’s dire financial condition, Lottman continued to solicit payments from customers and investors, concealing the truth about the venue’s finances. Lottman’s false representations and promises induced victims to part with their money, resulting in a loss of over $1 million.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, Russ Ferguson, stated that the prosecution would be vigilant in protecting individuals from fraud, particularly in situations like weddings where significant savings are spent. Lottman’s guilty plea is a result of the investigation and prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s office.
The outcome of Lottman’s plea is still pending, but his guilty plea marks a significant step in holding him accountable for his actions. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and due diligence in financial transactions, especially in situations where significant amounts of money are involved.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: North Carolina
- Location: NC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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