Ex-Wendy's operator accused of not paying wages

The former owner of 13 Wendy's restaurants in Western Massachusetts has been arraigned on charges he failed to pay his workers.

The restaurants, from Pittsfield to Palmer, closed abruptly last month, leaving hundreds of employees without paychecks.

Robert Burda of Dublin, Ohio, pleaded not guilty today in Springfield to multiple counts of nonpayment of wages and larceny by check.

Wendy's says Burda will no longer be allowed to operate their franchises. The burger chain also offered financial assistance to the workers.

Attorney General Martha Coakley's office says nearly 100 employees have filed complaints.
(AP)