A former Staten Island resident has been charged with embezzling approximately $2.5 million from a well-known restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. Prosecutors assert that Lori Jakubowski, 55, engaged in a series of fraudulent activities while employed at Fresco by Scotto.
Key Details of the Case
The details of the indictment reveal extensive financial misconduct. The alleged embezzlement occurred over seven years, beginning in 2016. Jakubowski reportedly pocketed cash from restaurant sales and tips. She is accused of transferring funds to her own accounts using checks drawn on the restaurant’s bank account.
Alleged Schemes and Activities
- Concealed thefts with false entries in QuickBooks.
- Deposited checks meant for the restaurant into her personal account.
- Used restaurant funds to pay her husband’s cable bill.
- Issued fraudulent paychecks claiming they were for vacation pay.
Additionally, Jakubowski is alleged to have laundered over $100,000 of the stolen funds. This money was used to purchase a home valued at $164,500 in Pennsylvania. Reports indicate she made payments using 88 separate checks and money orders in April 2023.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Jakubowski faces serious charges, including grand larceny in the first degree, money laundering in the second degree, and two counts of falsifying business records in the first degree. She pleaded not guilty to all charges during her arraignment at the state Supreme Court in Manhattan on Wednesday.
After entering her plea, Jakubowski was released under non-monetary conditions. Her next court appearance is scheduled for February 24.
Background Information on Fresco by Scotto
Fresco by Scotto is a celebrity restaurant located at 34 E. 52nd Street in Manhattan. It is co-owned by Rosanna Scotto, the anchor of Fox 5’s Good Day New York, along with her children, Jenn and LJ Ruggiero.
As the case unfolds, further details may emerge regarding the full extent of the alleged embezzlement and the financial impact on the restaurant.
