Supermarket employee sacked for recording $500 detergent theft.

A Supermarket Worker Takes a Stand Against Theft

A supermarket worker in Colorado recently found himself at the center of a daring theft incident. Santino Burrola, a former employee at King Soopers, witnessed three men stealing over $500 worth of laundry detergent. Instead of turning a blind eye, Burrola took matters into his own hands.

A Heroic Act Caught on Camera

“When I looked, there was already a guy halfway headed out with a food cart full of laundry detergents and scent boosters,” Burrola recalled. “My first instinct, record.”

With his phone in hand, Burrola followed the thieves as they loaded their stolen items into a black Chevy Trax. One suspect was pushing a basket of goods into the back seat, while another unloaded a full shopping cart. Burrola couldn’t believe what he was witnessing.

A Brave Stand Against Crime

“Really, bro, you got to resort to this?” Burrola, a former military police officer, exclaimed. “The economy isn’t that bad.”

“Better gettin’ while the gettin’s good,” one of the thieves replied.

As the gang of thieves drove away, Burrola took action. He quickly snatched the sheet of foil covering the license plate, ensuring that their identity wouldn’t go unnoticed. Burrola then called the police and shared his footage on social media, hoping that someone would recognize the culprits.

A Costly Consequence

Upon returning to work, Burrola received devastating news. He was suspended and, a week later, fired from his job at King Soopers. Despite his intentions to protect the community, the supermarket chain had a policy against employee intervention in thefts.

“Me and the union rep sat down with them and they recommended termination,” Burrola explained. “I would never let any criminal conduct slide, especially when it’s happening right in front of me.”

Despite the consequences, Burrola stands by his actions. He firmly believes that he did not overstep any boundaries or break any rules.

A Stand for Justice

“Did I feel that I overstepped boundaries? Not really because I didn’t physically touch them or alter their shoplifting in any way,” Burrola stated. “I just revealed the license plate to help the community be aware, the police be aware, and to help better catch them.”

King Soopers expressed disappointment over the incident but emphasized their commitment to working with law enforcement to address the issue of theft. They have security measures in place to minimize risks for their associates.

Continuing the Fight Against Crime

“We are disappointed by the increased level of crime across retail establishments and the impact these incidents have on our associates and customers,” a statement from King Soopers read. “While we are unable to comment on personnel matters, we value our hardworking associates and their safe return home.”

The authorities have made progress in the case, with one suspect already in custody. However, the search for the other two individuals continues.

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