The operator of several Popeyes restaurants around Iowa recently ordered to close by the chain's parent brand is also in arrears on taxes at multiple stores around the state, officials say.

Chicago-based business owner Asif Poonja runs at least seven Iowa locations of the Cajun-themed fried chicken brand, including one in Des Moines at 4140 Merle Hay Road. In September, the chain's parent company sued Poonja and his company, Jam Equities , alleging the company was continuing to operate five of those stores despite Popeyes revoking their licenses to use the brand due to unspecified violations of "food safety and brand standards."

Now the Iowa Department of Revenue is adding to the franchisee's legal woes. Since the beginning of October, the state has filed "distress warrants" alleging f

See Full Page