Regardless whether it was or wasn't Tom, the situation is Tom should step forward and show his credibility (or face the refunds).
If the chips are finished, is there please a chance to take a photo? No secrets revealing, no clock buffers or anything.
If the business has run into problems, it would be wise to speak out and ask friends, the community, or the customers for help.
Maybe the customers will rather accept the problems and clarity, hence they are the venture capitalists.
BTW any news from the new owners? Or they are not owners yet? Or they are not the right owners? How confusing.