
Jan 20, 2025
Today, our firm announced the filing of a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against Benhur Amanuel Tesfalidet, a concert promoter, for alleged fraud and violations of DC consumer protection laws. The lawsuit seeks to recover funds on behalf of Edward Williams and Grow Club, LLC.
According to the complaint, Mr. Williams and his company provided $40,000 to Mr. Tesfalidet in December 2021 for the purpose of booking musical artists for a concert event in Washington, DC. Despite receiving the funds and repeatedly promising to either book the artists or return the money, Mr. Tesfalidet allegedly did neither. Instead, the lawsuit claims that Mr. Tesfalidet strung Mr. Williams along for more than a year with various excuses and false promises, including providing what turned out to be a fake artist contract for performer Meek Mill.
"This case demonstrates the importance of holding individuals accountable when they engage in deceptive business practices that harm local entrepreneurs and business owners," said Managing Attorney Jordan D. Howlette. "We look forward to pursuing justice for our clients through the court system."
The lawsuit alleges multiple counts against Mr. Tesfalidet, including breach of contract, fraud, and violations of the District of Columbia Consumer Protection Procedures Act. The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory damages, treble damages under DC consumer protection laws, punitive damages, and attorney fees.