Northamptonshire Police are investigating an alleged “dine and dash” incident at a Miller & Carter restaurant in Kettering. A group of individuals are accused of leaving without paying a bill totaling £539.70.

Investigation Underway

The incident occurred between 5:00 PM and 7:10 PM on April 6th. Police have released CCTV images of individuals they wish to identify and speak with regarding the matter. This is not the first such incident at this location.

Previous Incidents at Kettering Branch

A similar incident was reported at the same Kettering branch on March 27th. Two men reportedly left without paying after a lunchtime meal. They were described as one man with a thick beard and brown hair wearing a hi-vis vest, and another wearing a red hoodie.

Growing Trend Affecting Restaurants

The rise in these incidents is raising concerns for restaurant owners nationwide. Julien Jourdain, owner of Bistro on the Quay in Ipswich, recently shared his frustration after a couple allegedly left without paying for a £195 meal on April Fools Day.

Details of the Ipswich Incident

According to Mr. Jourdain, the couple ordered an extensive meal including rib-eye steaks, snails, scallops, multiple vodka and Cokes, and a bottle of expensive red wine. CCTV footage allegedly showed them deliberately attempting to avoid payment, feigning a vaping break before escaping. Mr. Jourdain described the act as ‘calculated’.

Despite reporting the incident to the police, Mr. Jourdain felt the matter wasn’t prioritized due to a high volume of similar reports. He was unsuccessful in locating the couple himself.

Impact on Businesses and Staff

Restaurant owners emphasize the detrimental effect of “dine and dash” incidents on staff morale and the overall well-being of the business. While acknowledging the financial impact, Mr. Jourdain stressed the importance of resilience and continuing operations.

Police Appeal for Information

The police are actively seeking information from the public to identify those involved in the Kettering incident. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact them via 101, quoting incident number 26000213409.

The Miller & Carter restaurant is known for its high-quality steaks, aged for 30 days, and popular dishes like Salt & Pepper Calamari and the Miller’s Steakhouse Dirty Burger. Investigations are ongoing.