Presiding Judge David M. Barredo had a full docket Monday morning with 13 defendants appearing before him in Greene County Circuit Court.
One of the first cases produced a show cause order when the defendant failed to make an appearance.
Vincent Mastellone , owner of Ruckersville eatery Vinnie’s New York Pizza Co., had been scheduled to be in court at 9 a.m. Monday for a review of his case.
A year ago, the court found Mastellone guilty of an amended misdemeanor count of other forgery in connection of stealing more than $186,000 from the county by underpaying meals taxes dating back to 2014.
He paid $25,000 to the county treasurer up front on February 6, 2023 and was expected to pay $500 weekly for five years when a balloon payment will pay off the debt.
Defense attorney Ryan J. Rakness, sent a letter to the court informing his client had made all scheduled payments but Judge Barredo recalled the day in question noting he told Mastellone he had to be back in court Monday.
Assistant County Commonwealth’s Attorney Adam Rhea told the judge be believed Rakness may have told his client the letter would suffice but Judge Barredo stated “only the court can allow that.”