Fast-Food Theft Leaves a Bad Taste

I had a strange experience at a restaurant in University Village near USC. I purchased coffee and two hamburgers, planning to eat one there and take one home. While going to the counter to get a coffee refill, I left my market bag with my belongings at the booth.

When I returned, my hamburger was gone. Three young girls told me that a woman stole my sandwich and pointed her out to me. She was sitting on a cement curb at the corner of the parking lot.

I confronted the woman but she denied stealing the hamburger. I guess I made her uncomfortable as she got up and crossed the street, with the half-eaten sandwich and a cup of coffee. I later learned that the same woman had stolen a cup of coffee from another customer.

The counter girl replaced my burger and the man’s coffee. I hope this doesn’t happen a lot. I would not like to see the restaurant close if it has to replace stolen food and cannot make a profit.

LILLIAN FONG

Los Angeles