Former Steakhouse Chain CEO Sentenced for Bribes

TRENTON—The former president and CEO of the Charlie Brown's Steakhouse chain was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison on charges stemming from a conspiracy that netted more than $1 million in bribes.

Russell D'Anton, 50, of Manasquan, had previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Mary L. Cooper to one count each of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and tax evasion.

The Blackwood Charlie Brown's location was among several in the chain to close in November shortly after the business filed for bankruptcy.

Cooper also ordered D'Anton to serve two years of supervised release upon completion of the two-year prison term, according to U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman, who announced the sentence. The Manasquan man will also have to pay restitution of a still-undetermined amount.

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