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Cristina Fazzolari, co-owner of the well-known Mamma Ventura's Restaurant and Lounge in Gettysburg, is facing serious legal troubles following multiple felony charges linked to drug sales conducted behind her establishment. The charges, filed by the Adams County Drug Task Force, include the delivery of cocaine, conspiracy to deliver cocaine, possession of fentanyl with intent to deliver, possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, criminal use of a cell phone, and a misdemeanor charge for endangering the welfare of a child.
Fazzolari, 38, who has been managing the restaurant with her mother since her father's death in 2003, is now embroiled in a significant scandal that has shocked the local community. Mamma Ventura's has a long history, having been established in 1977 by Fazzolari's father, Carmelo, who started with a pizza shop in downtown Gettysburg. The Evening Sun noted that the restaurant is well-regarded, with Fazzolari previously celebrated as a talented chef after graduating from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Pittsburgh.
Alongside Fazzolari, her husband, John Anderson, 46, is also facing charges that include prohibited possession of a firearm and possession of drug paraphernalia. Reports indicate that Anderson was unable to post his $50,000 bail and remains in Adams County Prison, while Fazzolari is awaiting a preliminary hearing.
The investigation into their activities began earlier this year when the Drug Task Force received tips suggesting that employees at Mamma Ventura's were involved in drug sales. Surveillance conducted on April 17 revealed Fazzolari engaging in a sale of cocaine in the alley behind the restaurant, using her cellphone to facilitate the transaction. Anderson was reportedly observed monitoring the exchange.
Further investigations on June 5 showed Fazzolari driving Anderson to a nearby convenience store, where he delivered more cocaine. Disturbingly, during this encounter, their child was seen in the backseat of their vehicle, raising concerns about the welfare of the child amidst the ongoing drug activity.
Following these incidents, police executed a search warrant at the couple’s home in Orrtana on June 7. This search led to the discovery of 32 plastic bags of marijuana, which were packaged for sale, along with 16 fentanyl tablets and a digital scale containing traces of cocaine and marijuana.
Anderson reportedly confessed to selling cocaine to meet financial obligations, claiming that Fazzolari sold the drugs at his direction to support him. The situation continues to unfold as the restaurant remains operational, leaving many in the Gettysburg community both shocked and concerned about the implications of these serious charges.
If you or a loved one are struggling with a drug addiction, know that recovery is possible. Avenues Recovery has helped thousands of people break free of their addictions and can help you too. Contact us today to take your first step to recovery.