Albert Trummer, the owner of popular celebrity hotspot DOM, is currently embroiled in a legal battle with his investor Arndt Oesterle. Oesterle has accused Trummer of overseeing a “live sex show” and allowing open drug use at the venue. Trummer vehemently denies these allegations and believes that Oesterle is attempting to take over his club. According to Trummer, Oesterle threatened him last year when he refused to sign an agreement that would have given Oesterle sole ownership of the Gramercy Park establishment.
Trummer has fired back against Oesterle’s accusations, stating that there is no concrete evidence to support the claims made in the lawsuit. He denies the allegations of facilitating drug use and hosting live sex shows at DOM, emphasizing that his club is not akin to the controversial Lower East Side venue, the Box. Trummer is adamant about defending his reputation and the integrity of his establishment against what he perceives as a malicious attempt to tarnish his name.
The core of the legal dispute between Trummer and Oesterle revolves around financial matters. Oesterle claims to have provided significant capital contributions to the company, totaling approximately $1.8 million. However, Trummer refutes Oesterle’s assertions of co-ownership, arguing that Oesterle only invested in specific assets like a sound system and furniture, which he later reclaimed. Trummer maintains that Oesterle’s investments were not directly related to ownership of the club.
Trummer expressed his disappointment and disbelief in response to the lawsuit filed by Oesterle. He feels betrayed by someone he had known and trusted for two decades. Trummer vows to contest the allegations and defend his reputation vigorously. He asserts that the lawsuit lacks concrete evidence and appears to be driven by ulterior motives to seize control of DOM. Despite the legal battle unfolding in the public eye, DOM continues to operate as usual, maintaining its status as a sought-after destination for celebrities and partygoers.
The ongoing legal saga between Albert Trummer and Arndt Oesterle underscores the complexities and challenges faced by business owners in the hospitality industry. Accusations of misconduct and financial disputes can have severe repercussions on the reputation and operations of establishments like DOM. As the legal battle unfolds, both parties continue to present contrasting narratives of events, highlighting the importance of thorough investigations and due process in resolving such contentious issues within the realm of nightlife and entertainment.