El Paso County man accused of defrauding 40 victims looking for wedding services

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office says a local man promised dozens of people that he could provide “all-inclusive wedding services” at a property in Black Forest, but instead kept the money and provided nothing.

Richard Reynolds, 42, was arrested on Wednesday for sixteen felony charges related to the scheme, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation started back in January, but detectives found that 31 different case reports all linked to Reynolds.

EPCSO says Reynolds ran the “Black Forest Retreat” and offered wedding services to clients, but then nothing was provided. Investigators learned that victims came from locations around Colorado, including Thornton and Pueblo. In total, a detective had identified 40 victims who were scammed by Reynolds.

Investigators say Reynolds obtained more than $260,000 in the scheme.

According to El Paso County property records, Reynolds is listed as one of the owners at Black Forest Retreat on 11130 Teachout Road.

Reynolds faces charges of Crimes Against At-Risk Adults, Theft over $100,000 but less than $1,000,000, Forgery, Criminal Impersonation, and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, according to the sheriff’s office.

If you were promised wedding services at Black Forest Retreat and didn’t receive them, please contact us at 13investigates@krdo.com.