Things became complicated when Ruiz-Lacayo decided to work outside the parameters of his employment contract with Payless. Without the knowledge of his employer, Ruiz-Lacayo told the contractors that 3D renderings of storefronts were required for all projects. Furthermore, Ruiz-Lacayo told the contractors to use a firm he said was located in Costa Rica.
However, the firm indicated by Ruiz-Lacayo was a sham firm, and one that corresponded with his mother’s address. No renderings were ever produced. Finally, Ruiz-Lacayo submitted invoices from the fictitious firm to Payless for payment.
