Chef Lee Skeet closed Jackson’s in Cardiff, citing frequent burglaries and health concerns due to rising crime rates.
Skeet used to work for Gordon Ramsay, and Jackson’s got good reviews online. The restaurant opened in February 2023. His business partner will move Jackson’s to a new spot, which hopefully will have less crime. This allows Skeet to focus on his health and spend time with his family.
He mentioned armed robberies at the restaurant, where people had knives. He caught five robbers inside the restaurant. Sometimes, he slept there and woke up to burglars. Police are helping the arcade improve security. Inspector Adrian Snook knows businesses are important and understands how crime hurts owners.
The job’s stress became too much for Skeet. The restaurant got broken into eight times, and they frequently lost iPads, money, and alcohol. It was a lot of money lost overall. A man stole a tip jar from Jackson’s, and Matthew Young got 20 weeks in jail because CCTV and facial recognition helped find him. But Jackson’s still faced problems.
One break-in smashed a window, so the arcade boarded it up for safety. Later, burglars climbed through the boarded window, even though Skeet had been sleeping there for protection. He woke up on January 12 to three burglars and caught two of them that night. He accidentally broke one robber’s arm, and the police considered charging him with assault.
The police said the arcade CCTV was broken and they could not identify the burglars. No one faced charges for that burglary, and the police investigation is still ongoing. Another burglary happened later that week, where thieves stole about £6,000 in cash, equipment, and art, including a signed canvas by Leon Edwards.
Skeet felt like a security guard lately, having to catch several criminals. There is too much crime in that area, and many businesses got broken into. A main reason to leave was Skeet’s health; he did not have a day off in two years. He saw doctors or went to the hospital often.
His lease was also ending peacefully. The arcade will get a new food hall soon. The arcade owner emptied some spaces and did not renew some leases deliberately. This was good timing for Skeet’s move.
Skeet did not share plans for his other restaurant, Cora. Cora will stay open as usual for now. The new Jackson’s might open in a few months. Other businesses closed in the arcade too, and it’s not as busy as it used to be. Cora is always full, so location matters less, while Jackson’s paid its bills, but the location was bad.
The arcade placed a notice on Jackson’s window for the legal process of collecting items. Skeet said they separated amicably and there is no bad blood with the landlord. Inspector Snook said they will improve security. Crime reduction officers are working with the arcade, and police increased presence to reduce crime, promising to continue this protection.
Police reported 625 crimes in Cathays in December, which is where the city center is located. These included violent crimes, shoplifting, and antisocial actions. They asked about break-ins on Duke Street.