BATTLE CREEK (WKZO-AM) — The operator of two motels in Battle Creek and Coldwater faces up to five years in prison after entering a guilty plea in federal court to charges he forced his employees to work for less than the minimum wage.
When federal officials found out about it three years ago, they ordered him to make restitution or face criminal charges.
They say Mike Patel cut the checks for back pay, but the indictment claims he forced those employees to give the money right back to him.
He operates the Rodeway Inn on Beckley Road in Battle Creek and the Super 8 Motel in Coldwater.
Patel has also been investigated for allegedly allowing prostitutes to operate out of the two facilities and other crimes.
