Two people were arrested for allegedly leaving the Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Parsippany, NJ without paying for their meals.
Police officers were called to the restaurant to investigate a report of theft of services by a man and a woman. When police arrived at the scene, one of the individuals was leaving the restaurant and attempting to flee in a red Lincoln. According to police, the car nearly struck a patrol vehicle as the driver backed out of a parking spot.
Police stopped the driver and placed her under arrest for driving under the influence and reckless driving.
After arresting the driver, two patrol officers entered the restaurant and spoke with an employee. The worker told the officers that a male customer had ordered food and beverages totaling nearly $100; the man then allegedly skipped out on the bill.
Remarkably, the man is believed to have gone to a nearby hotel bar and ordered more drinks after leaving the restaurant. While officers were investigating, the hotel manager informed one of the officers that the suspect attempted to charge the drinks to a nonexistent room at the hotel.
The male suspect was then placed under arrest and charged with theft of services.
In New Jersey, theft of services is a very serious offense. The penalties for theft vary, depending upon the amount stolen. In this case, the defendants could face disorderly persons offense charges. If convicted, they may each be sentenced to serve up to six months in county jail.
For more information about this incident, check out the NJ.com article entitled “Cops: Two Arrested after Dine-and-Dash at Parsippany Steak House.“
