Fresco by Scott, a well-known Italian restaurant, has been the victim of a substantial embezzlement amounting to over $2 million, allegedly by their bookkeeper. This individual reportedly funneled the stolen money into purchasing a house, covering her husband’s internet bill, and enriching herself.
Lori Jakubowski stands accused of embezzling $2.5 million from the Midtown East venue co-owned by Rosanna Scott, a host on Channel 5’s “Good Day New York,” according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
The accusations from Prosecutor Alvin Bragg’s office suggest that Jakubowski executed this elaborate scheme over seven years, using various methods—from pocketing tips to issuing her own checks from the restaurant’s bank accounts.
Prosecutors noted that the misappropriated funds helped cover her personal expenses, including at least $100,000 for a house purchase in Pennsylvania.
“She used the restaurant’s bank account to pay her husband’s Spectrum internet bill,” Assistant District Attorney Stephen MacArthur said during Jakubowski’s first court appearance.
MacArthur also indicated in court that Jakubowski authorized fake paychecks supposedly for vacation and ended up overpaying herself.
Authorities revealed that she allegedly wrote 88 checks and money orders, cashing them within four days to fund a $164,500 home purchase.
During her arraignment in Manhattan Supreme Court, Judge Althea Drysdale permitted Jakubowski supervised release but cautioned that it wasn’t a free pass. “You have a second residence in Pennsylvania, but whenever I tell you to come to court, you have to come to court. Do you understand?” the judge asked, and Jakubowski replied, “I understand.”
Charges include grand theft and falsifying business records, with Jakubowski facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted of the most serious offenses.
Jakubowski has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Her attorney, Michael Fineman, chose not to comment following the arraignment, and she is set to appear in court again on February 28, 2026.
Scott’s Fresco, managed by Rosanna and her children Jen and LJ Ruggiero, has recently renewed its lease at 485 Madison Avenue. The restaurant has been in operation since 1993 and promotes itself as providing “an extension of true Italian hospitality,” per its website.
A representative from Fresco by Scott stated that they are cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
