A downtown Victoria business that has recently been the subject of multiple sexual assault allegations has removed the signage from their storefront, while red construction tape lines the entrance.
Located at 538 Yates Street, Chuck’s Burger Bar’s storefront sign was taken down this past week, and plastic coverings can be seen on the restaurant’s tables and chairs, perhaps a sign of what’s to come for the once-popular eatery.
The restaurant has been at the center of controversy when allegations of sexual assault against a former employee came forward and were brought to the establishments attention earlier this month.
The employee has since been fired and the restaurant has closed to in-person dining and online ordering.
Additionally, this week saw Chuck’s Burger Bar post hiring positions online for management, kitchen, and front of house positions, as recently as 22 hours ago.
In their initial statement posted to social media, which has since been removed, Chuck’s Burger Bar said they had been informed of the allegations and suspended the staff member in question.
Hundreds of commenters slammed the restaurant’s statement in replies on the post, with many saying dozens of victims have come forward and directly communicated with restaurant staff.
Other users also posted their own allegations of abuse and say they suffered at the hands of the staff member.
The former staff member behind the allegations has denied any wrongdoing and the restaurant says that they did not previously have any cause for concern with his behaviour.
“Our management team was fully surprised by the nature of the complaints and we are treating this matter very seriously,” Chuck’s Burger Bar stated in a statement earlier this month.
VicPD confirmed they are investigating the allegations and have confirmed that they have received several reports of sexual assaults.
“Our Special Victims Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the reports of sexualized violence associated with a downtown Victoria bar and grill. We continue to listen to those who are sharing information with us,” VicPD said in a statement.
“Many people have come forward with information requiring significant resources to properly respond. These investigations take time. Again, we thank those who have come forward to date and appreciate your patience,” the statement continued.
Victoria Buzz reached out to Chuck’s Burger Bar, but they were unavailable for any further comment.
