Former Zipps Hiring Manager to Plead Guilty to Felony

Authorities say the manager was involved in a scheme to exploit undocumented workers at the restaurant chain.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A former hiring manager at the Zipps Sports Grill restaurant chain in the Phoenix, Arizona area is expected to plead guilty to a felony offense related to the exploitation of undocumented workers, according to local news reports.

Why it matters

The Zipps case highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of undocumented workers in the restaurant industry, as well as the role that managers and corporate policies can play in enabling labor abuses.

The details

The former Zipps hiring manager, whose name has not been released, is accused of being involved in a scheme to hire undocumented immigrants and pay them less than minimum wage. Authorities say the manager took advantage of the workers' vulnerable immigration status.

  • The Zipps raids and investigation began in early 2026.

The players

Zipps Sports Grill

A restaurant chain with locations across the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Former Zipps Hiring Manager

An unnamed individual who previously oversaw the hiring of kitchen staff at Zipps restaurants.

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What’s next

The former Zipps hiring manager is expected to formally plead guilty to the felony charges in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges around labor exploitation, particularly of undocumented workers, in the restaurant industry and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures to protect vulnerable employees.