Santucci’s Original Square Pizza owner charged with federal tax evasion.
A prominent figure within the Santucci’s Original Square Pizza franchise, well-known for its distinct thick-crust pizzas that feature cheese hidden beneath a layer of tomato sauce, is set to plead guilty next week to federal charges of tax evasion. Frank Santucci Sr., who has managed the family-owned business for almost half a century, faces serious legal repercussions as a result of alleged irregularities in his financial practices.
Investigators have indicated that Santucci was responsible for maintaining what were termed “informal bookkeeping responsibilities” across several locations in South Philadelphia, Roxborough, and on North Broad Street. A significant shift occurred in 2017 when the company introduced an electronic point-of-sale system, transitioning from its longstanding cash-only business model. This modernization reportedly led Santucci to create two separate sets of financial records: one that accurately reflected the restaurant’s operations, which he presented to his tax accountants, and another that concealed cash income generated from the restaurants.
Prosecutors assert that this dual-record system resulted in false tax filings, estimating that Santucci understated his business income by over 0,000 for the tax years of 2017 and 2018. The legal charges brought against him, which were publicly disclosed earlier this week, encompass tax evasion alongside the filing of false tax returns. While the court documents did not provide precise details regarding potential sentencing, Santucci faces the possibility of incarceration.
Richard J. Fuschino Jr., Santucci’s legal counsel, stated that his client is fully prepared to accept responsibility for what he considers a personal error. In indicating his intent to plead guilty, Santucci aims to uphold the integrity and values that have sustained the business’s reputation among customers, vendors, and partners for generations.
Fuschino has reassured stakeholders that this legal situation will not disrupt the operations of Santucci’s extensive network of establishments, which now includes locations stretching from the Jersey Shore to various neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia and into nearby suburban areas such as Paoli and Media. According to Fuschino, the ongoing case will have no impact on the quality or availability of Santucci’s celebrated pizza offerings.
As this case unfolds, it spotlights the intersection of small business operations and legal compliance, underscoring the importance of financial transparency in sustaining customer trust and business success. Media News Source will continue to monitor developments in this significant legal matter.
