Restaurant owner speaks after string of attacks

CHICAGO (WGN) – The owner of a restaurant in the city’s Chatham neighborhood is speaking out after her business has been the target of attacks in the short time she has owned the eatery.

The Fatburger restaurant hasn’t even been open for a year, and owner Jackie Jackson told WGN-TV they have been struggling due to problems being caused by young people.

Jackson invested her own hard-earned money into the building that sat vacant for over a decade before she bought it.

Surveillance video from December shows one of Jackson’s employees having to fight off someone who came behind the counter as other employees ranaway in fear.

In January, more people jumped over the counter and caused problems.

“I mean, there was a time back in the day where this type of stuff wouldn’t happen because we protect our own interests within, right? We wouldn’t tear up what we have in our communities, which is why these type of establishments are scared to come into communities these days,” philanthropist Early Walker said.

Since then, Jackson has invested in a window over the counter, taller fences outside and an even better security system.

Jackson posted the surveillance video showing the incidents online just a few days ago, saying she wants parents to be held accountable.

Her message resonates; the videos have gotten over one million views.

Jackson said business is still struggling, but she’s committed to doing her part by employing young people.

“What better way to do to employ the kids and not just give them a job, but teach them entrepreneurship, teach them the things that I was taught when I was growing up at McDonald’s and Burger King. So they just not only have a job, but they can also inspire to own a Fatburger and Kilwins just like I did. It doesn’t take a person with a lot of money. It takes faith, resilience and hustle,” Jackson said.

Walker and his business partner are paying for the first 100 burgers sold at Fatburger on Friday and Saturday as the restaurant hopes to turn the tides.

Jackson will be holding a ribbon cutting and an official grand opening at that time as well, marking a fresh start.