Belvidere Haunted House Faces Uncertainty After Volunteer Pay Dispute
BELVIDERE,IL – The future of Karnival of Karnage,a local haunted attraction,is clouded by allegations of unpaid wages and miscommunication with volunteers,according to interviews and public statements. Owner David Hopper took sole control of the haunt in 2024 after operating with a partner for the previous 7-8 years, but his first year running the business independently has been met with criticism.
Former volunteer makeup artist Sarah Tomaszewski alleges she and others were led to believe they would receive a bonus based on the season’s profits. “I provided an excellent service with the resources I had, which was very little. My personal equipment was used, my personal equipment was abused and respect just wasn’t there,” Tomaszewski stated.
Hopper acknowledges a miscommunication regarding potential bonuses. “I’m sorry for saying that there would be a bonus if there was profits,” he confessed during a nearly hour-long interview. He maintains his motivation is purely passion-driven, stating, “I do it for the love of it.”
Financially, Karnival of Karnage generated $43,000 in revenue during the 2024 season, but still ended the year $1,000 in debt after covering expenses such as fair fees, forklift rentals, and portable toilets. Hopper explained, “There’s a debt that has to be paid before there’s going to be any money, and there’s probably not going to be anything left over.” He also stated, “When there’s no money to give, there’s no money to give. That’s why I don’t offer to pay you.”
Hopper says he prioritized supporting his crew, covering rent and utilities for them. He also admitted to personal financial struggles, stating he “sold almost everything I had to keep this place” running.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, hopper says, “It’s all strictly volunteers. If they get a bonus, then it’ll be a surprise.” He is currently seeking additional “monsters, builders and volunteers” and invites interested individuals to connect via the Karnival of Karnage Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/karnivalofkarnage.
Tomaszewski urges potential volunteers to proceed with caution. “I just want others to know you are worth what you set out to be worth and to be careful who you trust and always have it in writing.”
