MEMPHIS, FLORIDA – Memphis Garrett, 42, a former Big Brother contestant, is facing legal trouble after allegedly embezzling over $100,000 in sales taxes.
Garrett, whose real name is Robert Garrett, was arrested May 15, 2024, in Florida on a warrant issued by the Department of Revenue. According to the arrest record, Garrett, a restaurateur, is accused of failing to pay $55,366.77 in sales taxes for his LLC, Poke House Lauderdale, covering the period from November 2022 to October 2024.
He is facing first-degree felony charges for theft of state funds. His bond is set at $15,000, though it is still pending. TMZ was the first to report the arrest.
The charges stem from Garrett’s businesses, The Poke House and No Man’s Land Miami LLC. According to the probable cause affidavit, Garrett allegedly failed to remit the required sales taxes to the state.
Garrett’s legal troubles come just over a year after he filed for divorce from his ex-wife, Christmas Abbott, in March 2024. The divorce filing cited irreconcilable differences and requested no alimony for Abbott. Shortly after, a domestic violence case related to the couple was filed, though details remain unclear.
Abbott shared her perspective with TMZ, saying, “It is unfortunate that the actions and intentions of individuals involved in this situation have led to the exposure of personal and sensitive information.” She asked for privacy to focus on her family.
Garrett also addressed the divorce, expressing sorrow over the split. “My heart hurts. I did not want to have to file for divorce,” Garrett said. “I only wish the very best in life for her and [her son] Loyal.”
TMZ later reported that Abbott had voluntarily dismissed her petition for a restraining order against Garrett in May 2024.
Fans were first introduced to Garrett during Big Brother 10, where he was the runner-up. He later met Abbott during Big Brother: All-Stars (season 22), a season where the two became romantically involved.
