A man named Jawad Fakroune, 45, has been charged with extortion after allegedly attacking and threatening a restaurant owner in Lincoln Park over a debt. According to federal prosecutors, Fakroune had loaned the owner around $405,000 in 2023 and 2024 to help start a new restaurant.
By November 25, 2024, the restaurant owner had already repaid about $160,000 of the loan. However, prosecutors say that Fakroune confronted the owner that day at one of their restaurants, claiming they actually owed him $1.5 million instead. According to a criminal complaint, Fakroune became aggressive, following the owner around the restaurant before physically attacking them.
During the confrontation, Fakroune allegedly choked, punched, and kicked the restaurant owner while demanding payment. He also reportedly made threats against the owner and their family, warning them about possible harm if they did not pay him the money he claimed was owed.
Federal prosecutors have charged Fakroune with three counts of extortion, which involves using threats or violence to force someone to give money or property. Authorities take these charges seriously, as extortion is a crime that carries severe penalties.
Fakroune is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, where he will face the charges against him. Investigators will present evidence to determine the next steps in the case.
Extortion cases like this highlight the dangers of financial disputes turning violent. Authorities encourage anyone facing threats or coercion over debts to report the situation to law enforcement rather than handling it alone. In this case, the victim’s decision to seek legal help led to criminal charges being filed against Fakroune.
The court proceedings will determine whether Fakroune is found guilty and what penalties he may face if convicted. For now, law enforcement continues to investigate the case to ensure justice is served.
