Restaurant Heir Faces Multiple Legal Challenges
A dramatic series of events has unfolded at one of Las Vegas's most famous Italian restaurants, involving a family heir, threatening messages, and a suspicious explosion. Evan Glusman, the 47-year-old son of Piero's Italian Cuisine founder Frederick Glusman, finds himself at the centre of multiple legal proceedings following allegations of financial misconduct and violent threats.
The Bomb Blast and Threatening Communications
According to police reports, the situation escalated dramatically last Thursday when an improvised explosive device detonated at the renowned Piero's Italian Cuisine. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that two men dressed in black delivered the device, with one arriving on a scooter. Court documents reveal that one suspect placed the explosive at the front door while carrying a gas can with an attached pipe bomb.
The device ignited inside the establishment and burned briefly before detonating, causing damage to the empty restaurant. In a concerning follow-up, a parking attendant discovered the gas can the following morning but, unaware of its dangerous nature, disposed of it.
On the very same day as the explosion, court records filed on Friday indicate that Evan Glusman allegedly made threatening phone calls to the family restaurant. This isn't the first time Glusman has been accused of making threats toward the establishment.
Previous Threats and Financial Allegations
Glusman's legal troubles began earlier this year when he was arrested for allegedly illegally securing a $1.5 million loan against his father's business. According to an arrest report obtained by Fox 5 Las Vegas, when this financial discrepancy came to light in April, Glusman reportedly texted the restaurant's manager with a disturbing message: "I hope you realize I'm drinking and I'm going home to get a gun and (expletive) kill them in the middle of Piero's."
Following this alleged threat, Frederick Glusman expressed fear of his "unpredictable" son to authorities. The arrest report indicates the father described his son as having access to firearms, a history of violent behaviour, and patterns of unpredictable drug and alcohol use.
Despite these serious allegations, police have not identified Evan Glusman as a suspect in the actual explosion. Authorities made a separate arrest on Saturday, taking 35-year-old John Navarro into custody in connection with the blast.
Separate Arrest in Explosion Case
John Navarro's arrest occurred when police pulled him over for driving an unregistered vehicle. During the stop, officers discovered a gun in his waistband, $2,020 in cash, and a bag containing methamphetamine. Navarro appeared in court the following day to answer eight charges related to the restaurant explosion, with a judge setting his bail at $100,000.
The charges against Navarro include possession, manufacture and disposal of an explosive device, first-degree arson, using an explosive device to damage or destroy property, and conspiracy to commit first-degree arson.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings for Glusman
Evan Glusman faces his own legal challenges, including a felony charge for making threats or conveying false information concerning acts of terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, or prohibited lethal agents or toxins. He also faces a misdemeanour harassment charge related to the illegal loan.
Glusman's defence attorney, Josh Tomsheck, has previously stated that his client "has committed no criminal action related to any financial transaction referenced in the media." In May, Glusman pleaded no contest to the harassment charge and received specific instructions from Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Diana Sullivan.
The court ordered Glusman to avoid legal trouble for one year, complete in-patient and out-patient treatment, stay away from his father and the restaurant, and abstain from controlled substances. The judge warned that noncompliance could result in six months behind bars.
According to 8 News Now, Glusman has made progress toward meeting these requirements, having completed in-patient treatment in July and met other treatment requirements this month. However, he faces a crucial revocation hearing on November 25, where authorities will determine if he violated his release terms. If found noncompliant, he risks losing his parole and serving jail time.
Restaurant Changes Hands Amid Turmoil
Amid these dramatic events, the restaurant's ownership has undergone significant changes. Freddie Glusman, who co-founded Piero's in 1982, sold the iconic establishment to Amazing Brands in June, allowing them to take full control of operations. However, a news release stated that he would retain ownership of the land, maintain a stake in the restaurant, and continue to have an active presence.
The restaurant carries additional notoriety for its Las Vegas mob history, adding another layer of intrigue to its already colourful legacy. Daily Mail has approached Evan Glusman, Frederick Glusman and Amazing Brands for comment regarding the recent developments.
