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 Maryland, the offense of defrauding an innkeeper is addressed under Maryland Criminal Law Code, § 8-606. This statute makes it illegal to obtain food, accommodations, or other services at an establishment without intending to pay. It is also unlawful to secure credit at such establishments through deceitful means. The act of leaving without paying or providing a payment method that is not honored, such as a declined credit card or a bad check, can be used as evidence of fraudulent intent. Depending on the value of the services obtained, the offense can be treated as a misdemeanor or a felony. For instance, if the value involved is less than $1,000, it is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for up to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $500. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is treated as a felony, with increased penalties that may include longer imprisonment. It is important to note that if there was a genuine dispute over the amount owed and a reasonable payment was offered and refused, this may serve as a defense against the charge of defrauding an innkeeper in Maryland.