Massachusetts Restaurant Owner Charged After Confrontation With Alleged Dine-and-Dash Customers

A Massachusetts restaurant owner is facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say he chased down two customers who allegedly left his restaurant without paying and later pulled a firearm during a confrontation.

Police said Nadim Kashouh, 62, owner of Nadim’s Downtown Mediterranean Grill in Springfield, pursued a 17-year-old girl and 18-year-old Javonnie Lee after they allegedly left the restaurant Friday evening without paying a $92.40 bill.

According to investigators, Kashouh caught up with the pair at a nearby convenience store. The teenagers told police they attempted to pay twice but left after their card was declined both times.

Authorities allege Kashouh took the girl’s cellphone and demanded payment. Police say he then elbowed the girl and punched Lee in the face.

As more people gathered at the scene, police allege Kashouh pointed a firearm toward the group. Kashouh told investigators he acted in self-defense.

Police seized his firearm and license to carry. He has been charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery with a firearm, and assault and battery.

The two teens are also expected to face criminal complaints for allegedly defrauding a restaurant.

Kashouh appeared in court earlier this week. In a statement posted on the restaurant’s social media page, he denied wrongdoing and said he acted in self-defense. He said he looks forward to addressing the allegations through the legal process.

The case remains under investigation.