A 21-year-old Starbucks employee has been arrested for allegedly spitting in coffees of police officers, according to local authorities.
Kevin Trejo from Westwood, New Jersey has been detained after it was discovered that he spat into the beverages of NJ officers.
Park Ridge Police Capt. Joseph Rampolla said: “Under the current COVID threat, it is extremely disturbing to think that someone would intentionally spit in your drink.”
A spokesman for Starbucks said the 21-year-old’s actions were ‘reprehensible’ and that he had been fired.
“We will continue to support Park Ridge Police in their investigation and have a deep respect for the Park Ridge Police Department and the officers who help keep our partners and communities safe.”
Police Capt. Rampolla also said that the Park Ridge location usually has a good relationship with local authorities.
“We believe this was an isolated act but it does not remove the shock and disgust that our officers feel,” he expressed, adding that officers will be tested for coronavirus.
Trejo has been charged with subjecting law enforcement officers to bodily fluid, creating a hazardous environment, and purposely tampering with an officer’s drink.
The president of the New Jersey State Policeman’s Benevolent Association, Patrick Colligan, said in a statement: “Officers risk their lives daily, it shouldn’t be while getting coffee.”
One internet user commented: “That is so disgusting! WTH is wrong with these lunatics spitting, coughing and sneezing in peoples faces? Now Im going to be wondering about people spitting in drinks. Gross & dangerous.”
Another wrote: “Sounds like Starbucks has some nasty employees. I will not go there anymore because I can’t get that picture out of my mind.”
A third added: “Those punks make me sick.”
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Replaced!