Washington restaurant owner forced to close doors after crime surge makes insurance impossible

An Italian restaurant in Washington State closed down permanently due to a series of break-ins, with the owner blaming Democratic leadership for a lack of support for small businesses. Nirav Sheth, the former owner of Bistro Baffi, expressed his frustrations on “Fox & Friends First,” citing challenges in obtaining insurance and pressure from the landlord. The rising crime in the area also contributed to the restaurant’s closure, with Sheth pointing out incidents like a nearby Subway being robbed at gunpoint. Despite police efforts, the response from Democratic officials was deemed inadequate. The restaurant was struggling financially, with debts accumulating and insufficient income to cover expenses. Crime rates in Washington State have been increasing, with violent offenses, murders, and robberies all on the rise between 2020 and 2023.