Alleged Serial Dine-and-Dasher Causes Disturbance at Baltimore County Restaurant After Arrest

Nelson returned to Hightopps Backstage Grille a day after being arrested for multiple dine-and-dash incidents in the area.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:52pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a half-eaten plate of food, the remnants of a meal left behind, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a sense of abandonment and the financial impact of dine-and-dash incidents on small businesses.The aftermath of a dine-and-dash incident, a stark reminder of the financial toll on small businesses when customers refuse to pay their bills.Joppatowne Today

A 57-year-old man named Randy Nelson, who is accused of several dine-and-dash incidents in Baltimore County, returned to a restaurant he was previously kicked out of and caused a disturbance the day after his arrest, according to police. Nelson has been linked to at least five dine-and-dash incidents in the White Marsh and Parkville areas, and he is facing charges for theft and trespassing.

Why it matters

The case highlights the challenges small businesses face with repeat offenders who dine-and-dash, leaving them to absorb the financial losses. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in deterring and punishing this type of serial theft behavior.

The details

On Sunday, April 12, police responded to a report of trespassing at the Hightopps Backstage Grille in Timonium, where Nelson had returned and caused a disturbance. Nelson was arrested the previous day, April 11, for his alleged involvement in at least five dine-and-dash incidents in the area. He is also accused of causing a scene at the same restaurant on April 10 after being told to pay his tab and leave.

  • On April 10, Nelson allegedly caused a scene at Hightopps Backstage Grille after being told to pay his tab and leave.
  • On April 11, Nelson was arrested for his alleged involvement in at least five dine-and-dash incidents in the White Marsh and Parkville areas.
  • On April 12, police responded to a report of trespassing at Hightopps Backstage Grille, where Nelson had returned and caused a disturbance.

The players

Randy Nelson

A 57-year-old man accused of several dine-and-dash incidents in Baltimore County.

Hightopps Backstage Grille

A restaurant in Timonium, Maryland where Nelson allegedly caused disturbances.

Massoni's Italian Restaurant

A restaurant in Perry Hall, Maryland where Nelson allegedly dined and dashed.

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What they’re saying

“I would just like to know why he felt so entitled. We're a small business and every dollar counts. The fact that he felt so entitled to walk out without paying for anything is what really got to me.”

— Nicole Massoni, Owner of Massoni's Italian Restaurant

What’s next

Police say Nelson's charges are pending as the investigation continues. The judge will decide on whether to allow Nelson out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges small businesses face with repeat offenders who dine-and-dash, leaving them to absorb the financial losses. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in deterring and punishing this type of serial theft behavior.