Indiana Plumber Accused of 'Sabotaging' Restaurant Over Payment

An Indiana restaurant claims a local plumber re-clogged their grease trap with a balloon after his second bill was refused. 🌐 #News #EvansvilleIN #Indiana #WeirdNews

EVANSVILLE, IN — A restaurant in Evansville, Indiana is speaking out after a plumbing job gone wrong allegedly took an unexpected turn when the contractor returned to intentionally re-block their pipes amid a billing argument.

Small Business Hit by Unexpected Second Charge

Thai Bistro & Bar reached out to Heavrin Plumbing Company when their kitchen grease trap overflowed. The initial visit resolved the issue for $235. But just three days later, when the problem resurfaced, the restaurant urgently called the plumber back. This time, the bill ballooned to $390—nearly double the original cost—due to overtime charges, according to restaurant operations staff.

Frustrated by the price hike, restaurant owners refused to pay the second invoice, arguing that the plumber should stand behind his initial work.

Drain Blocked Again—But This Time On Purpose

Surveillance footage showed the plumber returned the next morning. According to messages reviewed by the restaurant, the plumber inserted a balloon into the grease trap and threatened to leave it unless the overdue bill was paid. Owners said they were given just one hour to comply before the plumber would leave the property for the weekend, potentially leaving the restaurant flooded with contaminated water.

The balloon created a full blockage, which staff feared could cause an overflow and force a complete shutdown of kitchen operations. They contacted police to mediate the standoff.

Police Intervene As Tensions Boil Over

Evansville Police arrived at the restaurant, responding to the owners’ request for help. Officers did not make any arrests but advised that disputes like this are typically resolved through small claims court.

Plumbing company owner Joel Heavrin defended his actions, stating there is no warranty on drain cleaning services and blamed the restaurant for prior delays in payments. He maintained that his team properly snaked the drain and left it functioning. He also admitted he didn’t pursue the matter legally, believing it wasn’t worth the hassle.

After the restaurant reluctantly paid the disputed bill—with a note indicating it was paid under protest—the plumber returned to remove the balloon, restoring flow to the grease trap.

A Lesson in Small Business Friction

Restaurant managers expressed deep frustration, accusing the plumber of strong-arming them into payment. They warned other small businesses to be cautious, emphasizing how quickly a basic service call can spiral into something much more serious.

Did You Know?

The average cost for commercial drain cleaning in the U.S. ranges between $200 and $500, depending on complexity and urgency (source: HomeAdvisor).
According to the National Restaurant Association, clogged drains are among the top five maintenance issues that can force temporary restaurant closures (source: NRA).
Indiana law allows service providers to place mechanic’s liens for unpaid work, but intentional property interference—such as sabotage—could result in legal consequences (source: Indiana General Assembly Legal Code).

Moment for Reflection

Even in the middle of conflict, God can work behind the scenes, softening hearts and opening doors for peace. When tempers rise and things feel unfair, we’re reminded that justice doesn’t always come quickly—but faith calls us to trust that truth will win out in time. Small business or big decisions, He sees it all. And sometimes, the most unexpected trials become the very place where patience, humility, and grace take root.

Which side of this local fight are you on? Let us know in the comments!

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RELATED TOPICS: Indiana | Weird News