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 Alaska, the offense of defrauding an innkeeper is covered under Alaska Statutes Section 11.46.500. This statute makes it a crime to obtain services, accommodations, food, or facilities at an establishment without payment or with the intent to avoid payment. The law applies to hotels, restaurants, ski resorts, campgrounds, marinas, gas stations, and similar establishments. The intent not to pay can be inferred if a person refuses to pay, provides a declined credit card, or issues a bad check. Depending on the value of the services obtained, the crime can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction may result in a sentence of up to one year in jail, while a felony conviction can lead to more severe penalties, including longer imprisonment. However, if there is a genuine dispute over the amount owed and an offer of payment is made and refused, this may serve as a defense against a charge under this statute.