Lawsuit Accuses Rochester Restauranteur of $18.9M Check-kiting Scheme

Katherine Mott, a well-known Rochester restaurateur owning establishments such as Monroe’s and the Wintergarden, faces accusations of orchestrating a $18.9 million check-kiting scheme. It’s alleged that since February 2024, Mott engaged in fraudulent financial activities by “kiting” checks between multiple accounts at First Star Bank and other institutions to falsely inflate the balances. The lawsuit alleges Mott deposited approximately 68 checks totaling over $62 million, drawn from accounts lacking sufficient funds. This resulted in an alleged overdraft of about $20 million. Legal actions demand damages and propose putting Mott’s assets under receivership while accusing her of violating the RICO Act. Following these allegations, Five Star Bank’s parent company has notified the US Securities and Exchange Commission and is cooperating with law enforcement. Mott’s businesses’ future remains uncertain amidst these accusations. However, her companies have issued a statement emphasizing their continued commitment to quality service and community partnership, underscoring the principle that allegations should not be instantly regarded as facts until the legal process is concluded.

Source: Rochester First