And I meant it.
The following morning, I began contacting customers who might have been affected.
Detective Vance provided information that could appropriately be shared while the investigation continued.
Working with the relevant parties, I started reaching out to longtime regulars.
Some were furious.
Others were confused.
A few hadn’t noticed unauthorized charges.
One man told me he’d spent weeks fighting with his bank after losing more than a thousand dollars.
His rent payment had been affected, and he’d nearly lost his apartment.
I listened without interrupting.
When he finished, I said:
“You have every right to be angry. I’m sorry I failed to protect the people who trusted my restaurant.”
I offered assistance with documented losses and expenses that had not already been reimbursed.
I also told customers they were welcome to return whenever they felt comfortable.
Most said they’d think about it.
Then Walt Henshaw called.
