Jason Nathaniel Speier, a 42-year-old resident of Arden, North Carolina, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for orchestrating a scheme that defrauded customers seeking log cabin kits. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson for the Western District of North Carolina and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Charlotte Division.
According to court documents, between 2022 and 2023, Speier operated as owner and president of K.I. Enterprises, Inc., which did business under the name “Kabens.” The company was unlicensed but advertised itself as a builder of European-sourced log cabin homes in Western North Carolina. Authorities said Speier misled customers by claiming he could provide turnkey residences built from these kits, despite not having any legitimate source for them.
Speier admitted in court that he falsely told potential buyers he had previously built many cabins and could provide references and positive reviews. He used online marketing and social media to advertise “complete log cabin home packages” at what were described as affordable prices. His advertisements also promised quick construction timelines and extensive customization options.
To expand his reach, Speier assembled a sales team that targeted customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. He also falsely assured clients that their down payments would be used directly for purchasing materials and completing construction on schedule.
Despite an investigation launched by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors following multiple customer complaints, Speier continued his fraudulent activities. He created a new business called “Big Timber Log Homes” and continued soliciting new clients even though he had not completed any projects successfully.
Court records show that over $2.5 million was collected from at least 24 victims during the course of this scheme.
After entering his guilty plea, Speier was released on bond. Wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; sentencing will be determined by a federal judge after considering relevant guidelines and statutory factors. No sentencing date has been set.
U.S. Attorney Ferguson expressed gratitude to the FBI as well as the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office and Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office for their roles in investigating the case.
The prosecution is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville.
