A business owner who coordinates US infrastructure investments for foreign nationals seeking EB-5 visas is challenging a $2.5 million damages award given after a trial court found that he had misused funds. Joseph Manheim, the owner of the company, is seeking to overturn the decision and remove the $442,000 in compensation he was ordered to pay to Paula Mandle, a director he appointed to a Delaware Valley Regional Center LLC affiliate.
Manheim’s attorney, Bruce Jameson of Prickett, Jones & Elliott PA, argued before the Delaware Supreme Court that Manheim should not be held liable for Mandle’s compensation. Jameson claimed that Manheim did not need her approval for any of his decisions. The case is currently being reviewed by the court.
The outcome of this case will have implications on how businesses operate and handle their finances in the future. If Manheim’s appeal is successful, it could set a precedent that would protect business owners from being held responsible for their employees’ actions or mistakes. However, if the court upholds the damages award, it could send a message that businesses must be transparent and accountable when handling funds belonging to others.
