Could I Be in Trouble As an Employee

[LawResearcherMissy]

My concern is NOT about being fired but if they will press theft charges and me having a record.

You should be concerned about being fired, for two reasons. One, if you're fired for theft (which is the cause they would give), you're going to have a hard time collecting unemployment.

Two, if you're fired for theft, there's a good chance they'll drop your name into a shoplifters database - as happened to one of our other posters hereabouts - making it extremely difficult for you to find other employment in the retail sector.

It's not a criminal record, but if that happens, it might as well be one, as it will cause you difficulties in similar ways.

[mrlace]

Yesterday, I did write down my side of the story on a piece of paper. I also dated and signed it. I was never given a chance to tell my side of the story until yesterday. I even asked for a copy of my written statement and was told no copy machine.

If I receive a record for this and all- should I sue? I have receipts saved, excellent back ground record and lots of respected character witnesses.

So, I could be charged for theft and name into database all over soda cause I had a head ache? If yes, America is really going to HELL.

[CourtClerk]

Sue for what? Because you took something and consumed it BEFORE paying for it??? Was there any reason why you couldn't find a water fountain or cup of water?

[mrlace]

Water fountain or cup of water? Sure, if I left my job and customers in line and crossed the street to McDonalds. In other words, the store I work at does not have a water fountain. As for water, I'd have to pay for that too and in any case it would be warm water.

[LawResearcherMissy]

If I receive a record for this and all- should I sue?

On what grounds?

Technically, what you did was commit theft. It doesn't matter that you paid later - remember, lots of shoplifters try to pay when they get caught, to try to avoid charges. Rarely works.

Retail operates on the "pay first" model. In the future, stick to that, no matter how desperate you are, and you'll be in the clear. America isn't going to hell, you're simply being punished for not playing by the same rules everyone else has to play by.

[tc498]

You should be concerned about being fired, for two reasons. One, if you're fired for theft (which is the cause they would give), you're going to have a hard time collecting unemployment.

Two, if you're fired for theft, there's a good chance they'll drop your name into a shoplifters database - as happened to one of our other posters hereabouts - making it extremely difficult for you to find other employment in the retail sector.

It's not a criminal record, but if that happens, it might as well be one, as it will cause you difficulties in similar ways.

Honestly if I was you this would be my only concern,I wouldn't worry about a criminal record.If you bought the soda to the counter,showed it to the manger,etc and then paid,just safe the receipt. Sometimes people are gonna be very anal about things like this,I use to work as a cashier.This one older lady who was there a long time,got lectured b.c she took a soda then paid for it on her break. She was an extremely honest,loyal and hard working person. The manger just had give her a hard time b.c the store is strict about those things.

Don't take it personnel b.c they are difficult , people can be strict and very uptight. Their not your family or friends it's there job to act like that almost,you know that your a honest guy, F-k them. When you talk to any one about it,be polite and just explain your case. I would told the guy,I understand I might of broke company police.If they ask just be polite and refuse to sign something. Sir I was sick,I drank soda and I paid for it.The store got the money and nothing was lost,I am honest guy just trying to do my job well and then go home. Why should I sign something that may cause me issue later,when the item was paid for. I wouldn't repeat the mistake again and I will wait until my brake to purchase anything. It's ridiculous they need to make such an inquire for a bottle of soda. I think at worse you will probably be written up.Depending upon the write says,don't sign it. I'm looking to cause problems but I don't agree everything that is being said. Just be careful to follow company polices in the future.




"Again, I do suggest you type up your version of the story, signed and dated, and have it entered into your personnel file. "

It could be useful to write your side and ask the manger if he would sign it.Safe a copy for yourself in the future. Just deal with it step by step,as the process plays out .I doubt they will press criminal charges for a 1.20 soda.I had many customers drink a soda while waiting in line,I just scanned it,took their money and if they finished the soda offer to throw it away for them. Does the store have a union?

[PandorasBox]

You said you wrote your version, but they would not give you a copy of it. You have a computer, right? Type it, run to Staples or someplace, make a copy. ALWAYS keep copies of this stuff. You could also include a photocopy of the receipt with that letter.

Suggestion: Start bringing in your own bottled water or pop, some brand that is not found in your store. (Ex: if you work at WalMart, bring in a Spartan pop). Or bring in a pop/water poured into your own exercise water bottle.

[mrlace]

Security put pressure on me to write something and talk. They asked me if manager on duty that night told me NOT to drink soda and I did anyway. I said after the effect. She said make sure you pay right away cause security making a big fuss.

"On what grounds?

Technically, what you did was commit theft. It doesn't matter that you paid later - remember, lots of shoplifters try to pay when they get caught, to try to avoid charges. Rarely works.

Retail operates on the "pay first" model. In the future, stick to that, no matter how desperate you are, and you'll be in the clear. America isn't going to hell, you're simply being punished for not playing by the same rules everyone else has to play by."

In other words, the workers are their slaves and their health means nothing. I attemped to pay and I am NOT a criminal. I have a clean record. I damn if I do and damn if I don't!
We had a big line of customers waiting to be served and my head was really hurting. If I left my register to pay right away for the soda, I'd be written up for not taking care of customers. I can't win either way. Lets make an honest and sweet person into this big criminal all over a $1.19 soda. Sorry but this is retarded.

[mrlace]

Hello all,

Is this good news at all?

THE LP I spoke to on Tuesday said he does not believe I am a criminal/theft.

Also, it is 11:30am here and I have not heard from anyone. The 48 hour suspension ends at about 4:30pm today.

[LawResearcherMissy]

In other words, the workers are their slaves and their health means nothing.

Stop acting like an overwrought crybaby.

There are rules to be followed, and you broke a pretty big one - PAY FIRST. It's not all about you. It's about policy and procedure, and you violated them.

You screwed up. Someone yelled at you. Own it, and move on.

Is this good news at all?

THE LP I spoke to on Tuesday said he does not believe I am a criminal/theft.

Could be good news, could be no news. Until you hear from the person who has the power to lift your suspension, assume it's no news.