The woman who went viral for spitting and coughing on food at a supermarket has now been jailed.
37-year-old Margaret Ann Cirko from Pennsylvania hit the headlines back in March 2020 after spitting and coughing on foods – including fresh produce – at Gerrity’s Supermarket in Hanover Township.
According to the authorities, the woman proceeded to contaminate products “in several aisles before attempting to steal a 12-pack of beer as she was being ordered to leave the store by employees.”
She also threatened employees and other customers by claiming they were going to get sick because she had coronavirus.
“I have the virus and you’re all going to get sick!” the 37-year-old yelled as she made her way through the supermarket.
After the incident, the store was forced to throw away $35,000 worth of food. Meanwhile, Cirko was arrested and charged with making bomb threats, misdemeanor, and attempted theft.
As the woman’s attorney insisted, Cirko tested negative for Covid-19 shortly after the incident at the supermarket. He also said that she was drunk during the event as he called for the bomb threat charge to be dismissed because her threats didn’t involve a mechanical device.
Though the prosecutors agreed to withdraw the terrorist threats charge under Cirko’s plea deal, the 37-year-old was sentenced to one to two years in prison and eight years of probation after that. She was also told to pay close to $30,000 in compensation.
The sentencing took place more than a year after the supermarket’s owner, Joe Fasula, spoke out to condemn the unruly customer’s actions.
“I am also absolutely sick to my stomach about the loss of food. While it is always a shame when food is wasted, in these times when so many people are worried about the security of our food supply, it is even more disturbing,” he said back in March 2020.
“Today was a very challenging day. While there is little doubt this woman was doing it as a very twisted prank, we will not take any chances with the health and well-being of our customers.”
What are your thoughts on this matter? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!