Former 'Big Brother' star Memphis Garrett, whose real name is Robert Garrett, was arrested on May 15 at an airport in Florida on suspicion of embezzling more than $100,000 in state taxes. Garrett, 42, faces charges of first-degree felony theft of state funds after allegedly failing to pay sales taxes totaling $55,366.77 from November 2022 to October 2024.

According to documents obtained by PEOPLE, Garrett's arrest came following a warrant issued by Florida's Department of Revenue. His businesses, including Poke House Lauderdale LLC, which operates The Poke House and No Man's Land Miami, are at the center of the allegations.

Under Florida law, the theft of state funds, particularly involving unpaid taxes, can be prosecuted as a serious felony. Florida Statute § 212.15 addresses failures related to the collection, reporting, and payment of sales taxes. Violations of this statute involving amounts exceeding $100,000 are classified as first-degree felonies, potentially carrying penalties including substantial fines, restitution, and imprisonment of up to 30 years.

The Broward Sheriff's Office confirmed Garrett's arrest, and online arrest records indicate that while a bond of $15,000 was pending, it had not yet been issued at the time of the arrest.

This incident marks another turbulent chapter in Garrett's recent personal life. In March 2024, Garrett filed for divorce from fellow Big Brother alum Christmas Abbott, citing "irreconcilable differences" and arguing against alimony payments. The filing came shortly after an unspecified domestic violence case, listed as related, was initiated; Abbott later voluntarily dismissed her petition for a restraining order against Garrett in May 2024.

Abbott commented briefly to TMZ about the separation, expressing her regret that private matters had become public. Garrett also addressed the situation publicly, expressing sadness and a desire for reconciliation.

Memphis Garrett gained public attention as the runner-up on the 10th season of the reality TV show "Big Brother." He later appeared on "Big Brother: All-Stars," where he met Abbott.