A default judgment was ordered against a Wichita rental business.

For Immediate Release, January 3, 2025

WICHITA, KAN. – A $62,682.55 default judgment was entered against the Wichita owner of a venue rental business for engaging in unconscionable acts under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA). The matter was investigated by the Office of the District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division after receiving multiple complaints against Misty Welch, doing business as The Gathering Place of Wichita.

The Consumer Protection Division alleged in SG-2024-CV-000869 that Misty Welch violated the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) by renting out space for planned events, including quinceaneras and birthday parties, at The Gathering Place, 1040 W. Pawnee, in Wichita. After accepting payments, Ms. Welch was evicted from the venue for failure to pay rent and the consumers were left without a place to hold their events.  Ms. Welch promised refunds to the aggrieved consumers, but failed to pay any back in full.

In the judgment, the Court ordered Ms. Welch to first pay back the consumers, along with investigative expenses, civil penalties and court costs. The Court also prohibited Ms. Welch from engaging in the business of venue rentals until the judgment is paid.

The District Attorney reminds consumers to exercise care when choosing an event venue. While the consumers here entered into written contracts with Ms. Welch and The Gathering Place, most paid using cash, Cash App or Venmo. The District Attorney suggests payment using a credit card, which may provide an extra level of protection if a dispute arises.

The default judgment was ordered on November 21, 2024 by Judge Deborah Hernandez-Mitchell. The case was investigated by Kristin Zluticky of the DistrictAttorney’s Office.

District Attorney Marc Bennett
18th Judicial District of Kansas
CONTACT: DAN DILLON, MEDIA COORDINATOR316-660-3707