Toledo restaurateur Cousino takes step closer to settling criminal case

BLADE STAFF

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Mr. Cousino, 64, of Perrysburg, withdrew his not guilty plea in Lucas County Common Pleas Court Tuesday to one count each of grand theft and failure to remit Ohio sales taxes withheld, both fourth-degree felonies. Judge Frederick McDonald referred him to the probation department to determine whether he is eligible for diversion.

Mr. Cousino, whose family has maintained restaurants in East Toledo since 1946, is accused of failing to pay a total of $80,915.91 in sales taxes – excluding penalties and interest – to the state of Ohio. The taxes pertain to his business Dri-Car-To Corp., which does business as Cousino's Steakhouse at 1842 Woodville Rd.

If accepted in the program, Mr. Cousino would be required to pay the amount while under supervision. Upon successful completion, Mr. Cousino would be no longer face criminal charges.

Judge McDonald set a Sept. 28 hearing date to learn whether Mr. Cousino met the requirements for acceptance in the program.

After his court appearance Tuesday, Mr. Cousino said the resolution gives him time to work with the state to better pinpoint the amount of taxes owed.

“It will bring some closure and give us some time to get where we need to be,” he said.

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