Server allegedly added tip money to checks at Ale House

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A server at a popular Orange County restaurant was arrested after it was discovered he allegedly added tip money to dozens of customers' bills.

Deputies said the vigilance of one of those customers led to the discovery and Sergio Vargas' arrest.

Vargas started taking extra tip money at the Miller's Ale House on Lee Road in Winter Park just two months after it opened in 2013, according to investigators.

"Yeah, I remember him," customer Heather Bracken said.

The Sheriff's Office said it was Bracken who noticed the increased bill amount on her bank statement.

"We were actually there for a business lunch and I remember writing out the receipt," Bracken said.

Her receipt shows she tipped $14 on a $70 check, but according to deputies, Vargas added $6 to make it a $20 tip.

"You know, you leave people good tips on bills and they still think they deserve more," Bracken said.

After investigating, deputies said they learned Vargas increased his tips on at least 60 checks and in some cases added as much as $20.

Vargas' alleged crimes would have gone unnoticed if Bracken hadn't thoroughly checked her bank account.

"It's easier to not really pay attention to it, you know," Bracken said.

Bracken plans to return to the restaurant because she said the managers handled the issue well.

No one at Miller's Ale House would comment about Vargas' arrest. He was charged with grand theft by a food service employee.

WFTV