Suspect accused of stealing $60 from tip jar at Folcroft steak shop

FOLCROFT, Pa. (WPVI) -- Police are searching for a man accused of stealing about $60 from a tip jar at Leo's Steak Shop in Folcroft, an incident captured on surveillance video and discovered after employees realized they had no tips to split at the end of the night.

The theft occurred around 9 p.m. Monday at the Chester Pike restaurant, according to police and the shop's owner, Steven Mullan.

Police said surveillance video shows a man reaching into a tip jar, removing cash, counting the money and placing it into his back pocket.

Mullan described the suspect's actions as unapologetic.

"He was blatant about it. He was bold and brazen," Mullan said.

The alleged theft happened near closing time as business was winding down. Mullan said the theft was unusual for the restaurant.

"It's almost like a family here," he said. "We're never worried about somebody taking the tips. That was the first time it ever happened."

Investigators are asking for the public's help identifying the man and a woman who appeared to be with him at the time of the theft. Although the amount taken was relatively small, customers said the incident was troubling because the money belonged to employees.

"It's not surprising, but it's still disappointing to say the least," said Elijah Stowers of Royersford.

"I know a lot of people are struggling, times are hard, but these are hardworking people back here, and they deserve everything they're given," said Lystra Morrison of Ardmore.

Employee JaQuan Quarles said he interacted with the man before the theft and did not realize anything was wrong at the time. He was among several workers nearby when the money was taken.

"It was kinda crazy because we were actually all up here, but we just didn't get to catch it . Give us the money back. Why would you do that?" Quarles said.

As police continue their search, some regular customers say they plan to support the employees by contributing more to the tip jar.

"I'm gonna put a little extra in the tip jar today just to know I appreciate them," Morrison said.

Police have not identified the suspect or the woman who was with him. Some employees believe they may have seen the man at the restaurant before.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Folcroft police.