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MADISON - ST. CLAIR RECORD

Friday, March 29, 2024

Owner of Venice bar says he was defrauded of more than $25,000

The owner of a Madison County bar and grill has filed suit against his landlord, alleging they failed to pay him more than $25,000, which was promised to him for relocating his business.


Johnnie Wilson filed a lawsuit Feb. 6 in the Madison County Circuit Court against Charlie Edwards and Hakim M. Aziz.

In his complaint, Wilson claims he was operating Robin’s Nest, a bar and grill, out of 113 Slough Road in Venice. He had been leasing the space for $500 per month, and his lease was set to continue through 2019, according to the complaint. Edwards approached Wilson and promised to pay him $28,000 for giving up and relinquishing his tenant rights through 2019, the suit states. After Wilson agreed to do so, Edwards accused Wilson of owing him back rent, the complaint says.

Edwards charged Wilson with failing to pay $900 per month in rent, even though his lease only required payments of $500, Wilson claims. By doing so, Edwards was able to avoid paying Wilson the $28,000 promised to him, according to the complaint.

Because of the loss of anticipated money, Wilson claims he suffered inconvenience, aggravation, emotional distress and harassment.

In addition to the money he claims he is owed, Wilson is seeking pre-judgment interest of 5 percent, post-judgment interest of 9 percent and other relief the court deems just. He also seeks punitive and exemplary damages.

He is being represented by William S. Daniel of Daniel Law Offices in Glen Carbon.

Madison County Circuit Court case number 14-L-202.

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