Sorry to the op. Why cant this just be handled amicably? Why the callout on James defaming anything? Is it because things didn't go as smoothly as you had hoped?...shit happens. Robert and Ben both know James' character and know deep down that the only thing that James and Jesse did was try to help in working weeks on end without any reciprocation for pay. Do you guys know anyone who would work themselves 5k in the hole and stay? Probably not. Some could argue that it was stupid in the first place for them to stay, and rightfully so. However, they did because they WANTED TO HELP. No ifs, ands or buts about it. Period. Did you guys argue and fight occasionally? YES. You all did. Who cares- its what happens. Has there been a bunch of shit talk since...yes. Who cares? How many times has Robert called and asked for help from James or Jesse...and either one been more than happy to help?...several Im sure. It is very apparent that there is conflict, Robert. Please just take the steps necessary to right the wrong, and try not to justify anything with the idea that keeps you paying what is rightfully theirs. They worked..they are owed regardless of what character flaws they may possess in your eyes. The department of Labor is not going to say,"Its okay not to pay them because you don't like their attitude" Trust me, been there....or even if you say they "stole" from you-that is a civil issue that is handled in a completely different venue that decides the outlying problems or justifications of why you would be owed anything from your former employees. Why cant you just see what you know is right? Pride? Screw pride. They worked for free and now they feel you are just trying to get out of paying them their earned wages through conflict. Ive liked Ben and Ive liked Robert both and absolutely have considered them friends before.. which is why I am completely baffled as to why it has went this far. Promise after broken promise. Just fix it, do what is right man and keep this non-sense off of a public forum.