KNOXVILLE ENTREPRENEURS IN HOT WATER: THEFT CHARGES REVEAL SHOCKING BREADWINNING BETRAYAL

KNOXVILLE UNDER FIRE: LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS CHARGED WITH THEFT

In a surprising twist of events, two Knoxville residents, Jacob B. Price, 34, and Erica Price, 33, have landed themselves in some serious legal trouble. The duo, who are both well-known faces in the local entrepreneurial scene, now face theft charges after allegedly stealing from a former employer who once trusted them. Talk about a dramatic turn of events!

What Happened?

A Knox County grand jury indicted the Prices earlier this month, laying out a two-count indictment. The stakes are high, as they are charged with theft of between $10,000 and $60,000 and a violation of the Tennessee Computer Act. The victim in this unfortunate saga is identified as George B. Cribbs III, who has since relocated from Knoxville to sunny Celebration, Florida. Sources indicate that both Prices have been quite busy managing Wrenhouse Bakery shops, including one on Tazewell Pike.

So, how did it all unfold? Well, back in March, Cribbs approached the police in Knoxville with some troubling allegations. He claimed the Prices, who had previously worked for him, embezzled around $43,000 by using his company debit card to make unauthorized purchases from Amazon. They had the items shipped to their own addresses, turning what should have been a professional relationship into a shocking betrayal.

A Peek into the Investigation

According to the police report, the alleged thefts took place over an extended period, specifically from February 2020 to June 2021. Interestingly, the indictment claims the wrongdoing continued until June 2023. This extended timeline has raised eyebrows and questions about how such actions could persist unnoticed for so long.

Initially, Cribbs reported the suspicious activities to officials in Central Florida before the case was handed over to Knoxville’s police department for a thorough investigation. With Cribbs listed as a key witness, authorities are also looking into records from Amazon, Regions Bank, Google, and the University of Tennessee to strengthen the case.

Who Are Jacob and Erica Price?

The Prices are not just local business owners—they’re also a couple who have drawn attention for their passion for baking and design. Jacob has a colorful background as a former Disney cast member and has been busy whipping up treats at the Wrenhouse Bakery. On the other hand, Erica is quite the creative powerhouse, boasting a successful website where she sells her designs.

Their enthusiasm for Disney pops up frequently on their social media, showcasing their love for the magical world. Given the joy they usually exhibit online, many are shocked to learn about the serious charges they now face.

What’s Next?

Although attempts to connect with the Prices were unsuccessful as of Tuesday, it’s clear that this legal storm is just beginning. With legal repercussions looming for both of them, there’s much anticipation regarding the next steps in this unfolding drama.

For the Knoxville community, this situation is a sobering reminder of how trust can be broken and how close-knit communities can sometimes harbor surprising stories beneath the surface. As the case progresses, locals will be keeping a keen eye on how it all plays out.

This story has all the elements of a classic tale: trust, betrayal, and a hefty dose of drama—who knew the world of baking and design could cook up such a thriller!