Single mother loses life savings in Houston food truck investment
Candice Winters was drawn to the swanky photos and videos of Washington Parq and reached out to the Atlanta-based owner about opening a food truck together.
A single mother from Indiana told KPRC 2 News Reporter Corley Peel she lost her entire life savings after trusting the wrong person with a food truck investment tied to a Houston restaurant concept. The business, called Washington Parq, was located on Washington Avenue and has recently faced legal troubles.
Candice Winters was drawn to the swanky photos and videos of Washington Parq and reached out to the Atlanta-based owner about opening a food truck together.
“He said it would be located on the property. He sent me a contract stating I would put up $20,000 for 20% ownership,” Winters said. “I wired him the money and was told it would open on Memorial Weekend. That never happened.”
For months, Winters says the owner gave her the runaround, even suggesting she apply for multiple loans to invest more money.
Last month, Winters saw KPRC 2 News’ previous reporting on the owner who was accused of not paying employees at Washington Parq. As of Wednesday, some employees claim they were never paid their outstanding wages.
Court records show a civil case involving the owner and another Houston nightclub owner who claims he was tricked into handing over his business with false promises of payment.
Winters, a single mom and sole provider for her child, said, “I worked really hard for my money. This was supposed to build wealth for me and my kid.”
She hopes the owner will be held legally accountable.
Houston Police confirmed they received Winters’ report yesterday and say the investigation is in its early stages. Washington Parq appears to be closed with the gates closed and the website not longer available. Attempts to reach the owner for comment have been unsuccessful.
