Paddy McKillen, a close associate and former business partner of U2 frontman Bono, is facing legal action in France over allegations of defrauding a prominent hotel group. The lawsuit, filed by Maybourne Hotels in Aix-en-Provence, claims McKillen, 71, colluded with others to submit approximately 50 fraudulent invoices for building work.
The alleged fraudulent invoices pertain to work supposedly carried out at hotels owned by Maybourne, which includes Claridge's, The Connaught, and The Berkeley in London. However, the claims state that the work was actually performed at Chateau La Coste, McKillen's estate in Provence, which features a vineyard, hotel, and multiple restaurants.
If found guilty of fraud by the Aix-en-Provence court, McKillen could face a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of €375,000 (£320,000). Bono and The Edge, U2’s guitarist, bought Dublin’s Clarence Hotel in 1992 with McKillen. No members of U2 are understood to be involved in the current lawsuit.
McKillen, who was born in Belfast, has had a significant career in the hospitality industry, including a period leading the Maybourne Group. He also acquired Chateau La Coste during his tenure. He has been described by artist Damien Hirst as a 'genius and great friend and wonderful human.' McKillen has declined to comment on the allegations.