Ex-Chickie’s manager files federal lawsuit

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The former manager of a South Jersey Chickie’s & Pete’s sports bar filed a federal whistle-blower lawsuit against the restaurant chain and its owner Peter Ciarrocchi last week, according to court documents.

Sharon Chase, 45, who managed the Egg Harbor, N.J. location, claims she was fired months after she raised concerns to federal officials about the chain’s payroll practices, documents show.

Before Chase was fired however, she was accused of undercharging for private parties, according to the lawsuit. Chase disputes the allegations.

The restaurant has denied any wrongdoing.

Chase, who started as manager in February 2010, was fired on Jan. 11, 2013.

Dozens of former and current employees have filed federal unfair labor practice lawsuits against the bar claiming staff’s tips were skimmed, among other unfair labor practice allegations.

Since the allegations came to light, the chain has incorporated new payroll policies for all employees.

Chickie’s & Pete’s, headquartered in Philadelphia, has 10 locations, and several kiosks in sports and amusement parks.