Sainsbury's has dismissed a worker who intervened to assist a security guard in restraining two shoplifters, a move that has led to local outcry and a campaign for his reinstatement.
Jorge Costa, 57, who had been employed at the Hertford superstore for two years, was fired for gross misconduct after the incident, which occurred early on July 1. Costa stated he heard a woman screaming for help and observed the security guard struggling with two suspected shoplifters. He attempted to prevent them from leaving with the merchandise, admitting to punching one of the individuals in self-defense.
The shoplifters ultimately abandoned the stolen items and fled the store. Following the incident, Costa received thanks from his colleagues, but two weeks later, he was suspended and subsequently dismissed.
Sainsbury's stated that Costa breached company policy, which advises shop floor staff not to intervene in shoplifting incidents. The company's position was that his actions escalated the situation and potentially endangered other employees. His dismissal letter indicated he had "put yourself and other colleagues at risk" and breached "keeping colleagues safe procedures."
Costa disputes some of the findings, including the claim that a manager had instructed him to be careful, stating no such instruction was given. He also contested the assertion that another colleague attempted to hold him back during the altercation. He noted that bodycam footage provided by the store's assistant manager only captured the latter half of the incident, thus omitting any initial calls for help.
"After everything finished everyone came to me and thanked me," Costa told the Daily Mail. "I'm very disappointed [about being dismissed], I've been depressed for a long time. I think it's wrong I was treated like this, it's been hard for me to find a job." He highlighted his unblemished record of attendance and punctuality during his two years with the company.
Customers have launched a campaign to have Costa reinstated, describing him as a "beloved" and "friendly" employee. Laura Cook, who initiated the petition, called the decision "profoundly unfair" and a "great loss to our community," emphasizing Costa's dedication and the welcoming environment he created.
Sainsbury's, like many retailers, has policies against staff confronting shoplifters due to the potential for violence. The supermarket stated, "Our colleagues face unacceptable levels of theft, aggression and violence in stores every day and we know how challenging these situations can be. The safety of our colleagues and customers is our highest priority... Our procedures are designed to prevent incidents escalating and where they are not followed we have a responsibility to take appropriate action."
This incident echoes similar cases where retail employees have faced dismissal after intervening in theft. In January, a Morrisons manager was fired after confronting a shoplifter, and a Waitrose assistant was dismissed for tackling an Easter egg thief, drawing widespread criticism and offers of employment from other retail executives.