A series of lawsuits have been filed against strip clubs in Tempe and Scottsdale, alleging that customers were drugged and fraudulently charged over $1 million on their credit cards.
The lawsuits, representing nearly 20 individuals, target several companies operating Skin Cabaret and Bones Cabaret in Scottsdale, along with Dream Palace in Tempe. These establishments, located on Scottsdale Road, are referred to as “sister clubs.”
According to court documents sighted by American Law Reporter, the plaintiffs claim they were drugged, leading to theft of their wallets and cellphones. While unconscious, photos were allegedly taken of them, and their signatures were forged to authorize credit card charges.
Incidents are reported to have occurred between October 2021 and November 16, 2023, across the three clubs. Alleged victims assert that cash was stolen from them, and their signatures were falsely used to approve credit card transactions.
In one instance, a patron claims to have spent $6,300 and $4,800 for drinks and a private dance, respectively, only to later discover unauthorized charges totaling $187,600 on his American Express card. Another individual alleges being drugged and charged $58,820 for services he did not authorize.
The lawsuits outline additional incidents where customers were purportedly drugged, and their credit cards were charged without consent, indicating a pattern of fraudulent behavior.
The plaintiffs seek a jury trial and restitution for their losses, along with punitive damages.
In response, the legal representatives for the accused companies, Wilenchik and Bartness, issued a statement refuting the allegations. They assert that all services were properly signed for and approved by the customers, with credit card companies validating the charges.
Dennis Wilenchik, in an emailed statement, dismissed the accusations as baseless, likening the situation to losses incurred in a casino and stating that customers received the services they paid for without complaint.
The case underscores the gravity of the allegations and the legal battle ahead as both parties contend with the complex issues surrounding the claims of drugging and fraud at these establishments.
