The downtown bar associated with a former bar worker at the centre of numerous sexual-assault allegations has closed, according to the owner of the building.
Aaron Usatch, who owns the property at 538 Yates St. where Chuck’s Burger Bar is located, said the restaurant closed after the allegations came to light.
“I would imagine they’re going to sell off the business, based on the recent events,” he said.
Calls to the business’s phone number went unanswered this week, as did messages sent via social media.
The restaurant has been dark for weeks, since allegations of sexual assault and rape against the former bar worker were first shared anonymously online. Many on social media have called for the bar to shut its doors.
Window stickers with the Chuck’s branding have been removed, as well as a wooden sign that hung above the entrance. Tables and chairs inside have been covered in plastic, with construction tape outside surrounding the patio.
Usatch said he doesn’t know what the plans are for the space, and the lease has not been terminated.
“It’s obviously a tragedy that’s gone on. It’s an awful thing for the victims,” he said.
Usatch said he has co-operated with police during the ongoing investigation.
At least a dozen women have accused a former employee of Chuck’s Burger Bar of sexual assault, rape and predatory behaviour. They described a man who often gave out free drinks and encouraged or coerced them to consume alcohol. Two women who shared their stories with the Times Colonist accused the man of rape. A third woman said she woke up to find the man touching her.
Stories of allleged assault linked to the man have also come out in Ontario, where he lived and worked in the hospitality industry before moving to Victoria.
Chuck’s issued a statement after the allegations were made, saying the employee had been fired and the company was not previously aware of the accusations against him.
Protests were held during the past few weeks to bring attention to alleged sexual assaults and call for the man’s arrest. Groups have gathered outside Chuck’s, as well as at Victoria police headquarters.
Police say they continue to investigate the reports, and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone who would like to make a report to police is asked to call VicPD at 250-995-7654, extension 1.
regan-elliott@timescolonist.com
