BELMONT, N.C. — Joy Nichols Auten, a former manager at Nellie’s Southern Kitchen, is accused of embezzling more than $200,000 from the restaurant, which is owned by Kevin and Denise Jonas, the parents of the Jonas Brothers.
Details of the Embezzlement Scheme
Authorities said Auten withdrew $251,986 from a restaurant account, although only $28,798.47 was required for legitimate transactions. This left a discrepancy of over $223,000 in unaccounted cash withdrawals. Investigators also reported that Auten allegedly deposited more than $93,000 in stolen funds into her personal bank account.
Auten’s Arrest and Charges
Auten, who managed the Belmont location of Nellie’s Southern Kitchen, was arrested and charged with five counts of embezzlement. After her arrest, she was released on $25,000 bond.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the theft remains ongoing, as authorities continue to review the case. The Jonas family also owns a second Nellie’s Southern Kitchen location in Las Vegas.