A probe into alleged state labor law violations at a trio of area restaurants has resulted in 57 employees receiving more than $90,000 in back wages, according to the state Department of Labor.
Commissioner Danté Bartolomeo said the department’s Division of Wage and Workplace Standards conducted a year-long investigation.
The three restaurants, Vazzano’s Four Seasons Banquets LLC in Stratford, Vazzy’s Cucina in Shelton, and Vazzy’s 19th Hole in Fairfield, all had labor violations, according to the state.
Investigators concluded the restaurants failed to maintain proper payroll processes and time records. The businesses also failed to pay minimum wage or overtime compensation, and failed to provide proper breaks for workers to eat.
The state recovered $73,784.41 in back wages for 20 employees, and levied a $7,500 civil penalty against Vazzy’s Cucina.
For Vazzano’s Four Seasons Banquet LLC, the labor department obtained $16,030 in back wages for 33 employees, and levied a $4,800 civil penalty.
For Vazzy’s 19th Hole, the state recovered $978.94 in back wages for four employees and levied a $900 civil penalty.
Bartolomeo said in an announcement, “It’s imperative that workers are compensated justly, treated fairly, and able to seek recourse for infringement on their rights as employees.”
In October, the state concluded an eight month investigation into Vazzy’s Restaurant in Bridgeport, also reporting labor violations. Following that probe, a settlement was reached to recover $78,900 in back wages for 48 employees. The state also imposed $20,000 in civil penalties against the restaurant.
John Vazzano, owner of the restaurants, could not immediately be reached for comment.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.
