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Decision yet to be made on Acropolis Pizza House’s abatement, lawyer remains hopeful

Though no decision was made during Acropolis Pizza House’s nuisance abatement hearing Tuesday, the lawyer representing the restaurant said he believes it went well for both his client and the city.

“Looking at the big picture, everyone wants the same thing,” Attorney Tom Cerio said. “Everyone wants the street to be safe.”

The hearing was ordered in November because of three incidents resulting in arrests near the restaurant, located at 167 Marshall St. The arrests involved marijuana possession, the sale of an alcoholic beverage to a minor and a weapons charge.  During a nuisance abatement hearing, police officers who were at the crime scenes testify, and business owners and their lawyers talk about what they’ve done to fix problems.

Cerio said Acropolis has taken steps such as adding no loitering signs, more security during the weekend and surveillance cameras. He said the restaurant will also have training on the proper procedures for the sale of alcohol, and will try to be more “proactive” about security in and outside of the restaurant.

Chief Frank Fowler of the Syracuse Police Department will make the final decision about the fate of the restaurant. From his experience, Cerio said decisions are usually issued within three to four months. He said there’s no sense of urgency with this case, as both parties are now “on the same page.”



Deputy Chief Joe Cecile of SPD could not immediately be reached for comment.

Acropolis employee Steve Papazides, citing the request of his lawyer, declined to comment.





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