Lexington Police Arrest Suspect Paul V. Masters in Giuseppe's Ristorante Italiano Safe Theft

LEXINGTON, KY — The Lexington Police Department has arrested a suspect in connection with the audacious burglary of Giuseppe's Ristorante Italiano, a highly popular Italian dining destination located on Nicholasville Road. The suspect, identified as 54-year-old Paul V. Masters, was apprehended following a detailed multi-month investigation into the heist, which occurred in July 2024.

The burglary took place during the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 10, 2024. According to police reports, the perpetrator managed to bypass the restaurant’s alarm system before forcing entry into the building. Once inside, the suspect caused extensive damage to the property, breaking windows and tearing down ceiling tiles in search of valuables. Surveillance footage captured the burglar using a hand-truck dolly to wheel a heavy commercial safe and a cash register out of the establishment. The stolen safe contained an undisclosed amount of cash representing the restaurant's revenue from the preceding days.

The incident caused significant concern among business owners along the busy Nicholasville Road corridor. Giuseppe's, known for its fine Italian dining and live music, had to undergo repairs but remained open to serve its loyal clientele. “It was a very invasive crime, and the property damage was substantial,” the restaurant's management remarked. “We are incredibly relieved that the police have made an arrest, and we appreciate the support we received from our community.”

Following a forensic investigation at the scene and the analysis of nearby security feeds, detectives identified Masters as the suspect. On October 1, 2024, Lexington Police located and arrested Masters. He has been charged with third-degree burglary, criminal mischief, and possession of burglary tools. Masters is currently being held at the Fayette County Detention Center.

The Lexington Police Department continues to encourage anyone with further information regarding the incident to contact their burglary unit at (859) 258-3600 or to submit anonymous tips to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at (859) 253-2020.