Owners of shuttered Buckingham wedding venue settle lawsuit with PA attorney general

Lawrence Plummer Jr. and Karen Plummer, managing members of since-shuttered wedding venue The Barn at Forestville, reached a settlement with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office over claims operators offered related goods and services without obtaining the required zoning permit.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro alleged the Plummers "falsely advertised and misrepresented to consumers" that they had the legal ability to hold events, including parties, weddings, and receptions, at their property on Forest Grove Road.

As a function of the settlement, they will also pay civil penalties of $11,750, and are prohibited from operating, holding and advertising any events for compensation at the venue.

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"The Plummers disregarded the well-being of people preparing for one of the most special days of their lives,” Shapiro said. “They vowed to deliver, but operated their business, in violation of the law, and took advantage of couples who were acting in good faith.

"My office will remain diligent in ensuring companies like The Barn in Pennsylvania do not shed their responsibility to treat customers right and to operate lawfully.”

In early 2020, Shapiro filed a complaint against the pair, alleging they accepted reservations and deposits but failed to provide services.

"The Plummers preyed upon people who were preparing for the most special day of their lives,” Shapiro said at the time. "They vowed to deliver then stole down payments and deposits for weddings, operated an illegitimate business, violated a preexisting agreement, violated local and state law, and took advantage of those who were acting in good faith."

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The attorney general's office noted that parties which previously paid for events which were scheduled at The Barn and subsequently canceled by the the Plummers may be able to recoup their losses.

Affected parties should file a complaint by January 17, 2023 and submit documentation which supports the claim against the Plummers. Complainants can also call the Bureau of Consumer Protection with at 1-800-441-2555.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Barn at Forestville in Buckingham settle claims with PA Attorney General