Kentucky Scandal: Hardin County Business Owners Accused of Defrauding Veterans Out of More Than $125,000
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — Two Hardin County business owners are facing serious charges after allegedly defrauding Kentucky veterans and misusing more than $125,000 in donated funds. State officials say the pair ran a so-called veterans support group that instead funneled money toward gambling, restaurants, and personal expenses.
Owners of C & P Garage Indicted on Major Theft Charges
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that 65-year-old Carlos Fernandez and 60-year-old Patricia Parrott have been indicted on a felony charge of theft by unlawful taking, involving an amount greater than $10,000 and less than $1 million.
According to investigators, the two operated C & P Garage, an organization that marketed itself as a volunteer-run group dedicated to supporting Kentucky veterans and their families.
Coleman emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating:
“We will not tolerate organizations taking advantage of Kentucky veterans.”
Investigation Reveals Gambling and Personal Spending
A detailed complaint alleges that the organization falsely claimed to work with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and misrepresented its mission to donors. Despite these claims, investigators say large amounts of donated money were spent on gambling, restaurant tabs, and personal expenses.
Records show that, since 2019, C & P Garage portrayed itself as an “all-volunteer” veterans support organization, soliciting donations intended to help former service members.
However, the complaint found:
“Much of the more than $125,000 of the organization’s money was spent on gambling and at restaurants.”
Organization Shut Down After Civil Court Order
C & P Garage has now been temporarily shut down following a court order in a separate civil case. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs previously sent a warning letter in 2023 demanding the group cease illegal activities, but officials say the behavior continued even after the notice.
The findings prompted both criminal and civil actions, with investigators continuing to examine the full financial history of the organization.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings and Community Reaction
The indictment has sparked outrage among veterans and supporters who believed the group was helping former service members. Many expressed anger over claims that money meant for struggling veterans was instead used for personal benefit.
Authorities say additional charges or restitution orders could follow as the case develops.
As Kentucky officials push forward with the investigation, residents are encouraged to stay aware of organizations soliciting donations and verify their legitimacy. For more updates on legal cases, fraud investigations, and public-safety news across the region, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.