An assistant manager of a Burger King in Union, South Carolina, was arrested on felony charges of tampering with food after she allegedly served customers French fries that had been discarded in the trash can.
The incident came to light after the Union Police Department responded to a disturbance report at the fast food restaurant located on Duncan Bypass on July 9. Upon arrival, officers encountered two women engaged in a heated argument with restaurant staff, resorting to threats and profanity. Despite repeated requests to calm down, the women continued their disruptive behavior, leading to their arrest on disorderly conduct charges.
However, the situation took a more alarming turn two days later when Burger King’s headquarters contacted the police to report the company had discovered that the store’s assistant manager, Jaime Christine Major, 39, had been serving customers freshly cooked fries mixed with discarded ones from the trash can.
The investigation revealed that Major allegedly took fries from the trash and added them to the container where newly cooked fries were placed, subsequently dumping new fries on top of them. This unsanitary and malicious act raised serious concerns about the health and safety of customers.
In light of these disturbing findings, a warrant was issued for Major’s arrest, leading to her subsequent detention.
“The employee in question has been terminated by the Franchisee of this location. The Franchisee is cooperating with local authorities, and because this remains an ongoing investigation, we are unable to share additional details at this time,” a statement from Burger King read.
Major now faces the severe consequences of her actions, being charged with malicious tampering with human food, a felony offense. If convicted, she could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison, according to state laws.
At a recent court hearing, a judge set Major’s bond at $20,000. As of the latest report, she remains in custody at the Union County Detention Center.
Customers and residents of Union were left shocked and concerned about the safety of food in fast food establishments. Burger King, in response to the incident, assured the public that it takes such matters very seriously and is implementing additional measures to prevent any such incidents in the future.
“These allegations do not align to the brand’s commitment to quality food and service and creating an exceptional Guest experience,” a company representative wrote.
Authorities urge anyone who may have been affected by this incident or have any further information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
