Former charity restaurant chef accused of using nonprofit credit card for gambling

A former chef at a Kentucky charity restaurant is facing criminal charges after investigators say he used a nonprofit’s credit card for gambling rather than purchasing food for those in need.

Jacob Southworth, who worked at Russ’ Kitchen in Scott County, is charged with theft by deception. Authorities allege he used a credit card belonging to the Amen House nonprofit to make gambling transactions totaling more than $3,300 at Red Mile Gaming.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Fayette District Court, investigators identified two transactions — one in mid-November and another in early December — that together totaled $3,345.27. The charges were discovered by the nonprofit’s executive director, who froze the card and reported the suspected theft to police.

Russ’ Kitchen was created through a partnership between Amen House and a local business group to help ensure residents in Scott County have access to meals. The restaurant is named in honor of 12-year-old Russ Bourget, who died in a UTV accident.

Court documents state Southworth did not report to work in early December and declined to meet with management. Investigators say he later admitted to using the credit card for gambling and told officials he did not have the money to repay the nonprofit.

Community members say the allegations are especially troubling given the restaurant’s mission to serve people facing hardship.

Southworth is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing.

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