An Action News Jax investigation has uncovered the State Attorney’s Office is investigating Latitude 360.
The local entertainment restaurant suddenly shut down last month.
A whistleblower who wanted to remain anonymous forwarded Action News Jax Jenna Bourne an email from Assistant State Attorney Andrew Kantor.
It says, “We have initiated the investigation.”
The email’s subject line is “Latitude bad checks.”
For weeks, the State Attorney’s Office would not confirm whether they’re investigating Latitude 360.
When we showed them the whistleblower’s email on Monday, they confirmed they’re in the middle of an active investigation.
State Attorney’s Office 4th Judicial Circuit spokesperson Jackelyn Barnard sent Action News Jax the following statement:
“I can confirm the State Attorney’s Office has talked with citizens in our community who have concerns regarding this business. It would be inappropriate to discuss further this active investigation.”
Former Latitude 360 banquet server Michelle Samala said she still hasn’t been able to cash her final two checks, weeks after the flagship Jacksonville location shut down.
“What kind of moral thinking – why would anyone want to do this to other people’s families?” Samala said.
Multiple sources tell Action News Jax employees’ paychecks are also bouncing at Latitude 360’s sole remaining location in Pittsburgh and the restaurant ran out of food this weekend, telling customers the kitchen was broken.
One former employee -- who said he quit from the Pittsburgh location two weeks ago -- said management told employees not to talk to the media.
CEO Brent Brown did not respond to our questions about what’s happening there or when employees will be paid.
“What goes around comes around for Brent Brown,” Samala said.