A Ridgeland man has been arrested and is facing multiple charges for allegedly convincing individuals to pay to join a non-existent football team in Hardeeville.
Nathaniel Drayton, 37, initially faced two counts of fraud related to unpaid bills exceeding $23,000 at various establishments, including hotels and restaurants.
On September 18, additional charges were filed by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, bringing the total to six more counts of breach of trust and obtaining property under false pretenses. Drayton allegedly convinced several individuals to travel to Hardeeville to join a post-grad football team called the Hardeeville Vikings, which he falsely claimed to own.
According to a sheriff’s office spokesperson, Drayton collected payments from these individuals, promising them housing, meals, practice facilities, and a full season of football games. However, none of these services were ever provided, and those who paid never received refunds. Additionally, Drayton had booked hotel rooms for participants, leading to accrued unpaid balances that contributed to the outstanding debt of over $23,000.