Most states have a specific statute (often called defrauding an innkeeper) that makes it a criminal offense to obtain food, lodging, fuel, or other accommodations at a restaurant, hotel, ski resort, campground, marina, gas station, or other establishment, with the intent not to pay for such goods and services—or to secure credit at such an establishment through fraud or other means of deceit (false pretenses). Proof that a person refused or neglected to pay for such food, lodging, fuel, or accommodations, or gave payment that was not honored (declined credit card, bad check) is generally proof of such fraudulent intent not to pay for the goods or services.

The definitions and punishment for this criminal offense vary from state to state, but generally may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or as a felony, and may include confinement in jail or state prison. In some states, if the amount owed was disputed and the amount offered in payment was refused, a person cannot be convicted under the statute.

In Wyoming, defrauding an innkeeper is addressed under Wyoming Statutes Section 6-3-402. This statute makes it illegal to obtain services, accommodations, entertainment, or the use of facilities without payment or with the intent to defraud the provider of such services. This includes, but is not limited to, food, lodging, and fuel. The law presumes intent to defraud if an individual refuses to pay or provides a payment method that is not honored, such as a declined credit card or a bad check. The severity of the offense in Wyoming can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the services obtained. The punishment may include fines, restitution, and possible imprisonment. If there is a genuine dispute over the amount owed and an offer of payment is made that is refused, this may serve as a defense against the charge of defrauding an innkeeper.