St. Louis (KSDK) - The Better Business Bureau says a St. Louis man is facing scrutiny for reneging on hotel room payments for the Democratic National Convention.

The BBB says Wendell Southerland allegedly tricked a Rhode Island man out of $5,200 during February's Super Bowl by selling game tickets the man never received.  An official with the InternContinental Hotels Group, which manages the Holiday Inn Express, says Southerland failed to pay on more than 30 rooms booked at three hotels for the Super Bowl in New Orleans.

Now, the BBB has learned Southerland booked 10 rooms at the Charlotte City Center Marriott Hotel.  When the rooms were booked, the hotel gave Southerland confirmation numbers.  But when the hotel tried to charge Southerland's credit card for deposits, the card was rejected.  The hotel contaced the BBB after learning of Southerland's history.

The BBB says Vinita Park Police tell them Southerland's mother has paid her son's debts.

Here are tips from the BBB on buying event tickets or hotel packages from classified ads and websites such as Craigslist:

• Only buy from businesses or individuals you can trust. Look for businesses with a strong history of customer satisfaction.
• Ask for references and contact them about their experiences with any broker.
• Beware of counterfeit tickets.
• Before paying for a room package, contact the hotel or motel to make sure the rooms are actually held by the seller.
• Pay by credit card in the event you need to challenge the charge. If you purchase tickets online, deal only with secure sites.
• Be cautious of anyone who wants upfront payments with the promise that he will deliver your ticket or tickets later.
• Check the BBB for Business Reviews at www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300.