Dollar Tree is facing a lawsuit following allegations of sexual assaults at a San Diego store, where three women reported disturbing encounters involving a U.S. Marine. The incidents, which allegedly occurred over two weekends in March 2025 at the Clairemont Mesa Boulevard location, have led to criminal charges against a Marine and a lawsuit accusing the company of failing to protect customers.
A 22-year-old Marine stationed locally has been charged with misdemeanor lewd conduct and misdemeanor sexual battery in connection with the three incidents, according to reports. The Marine's attorney stated that his client maintains his innocence and that the allegations have not yet been tested in court.
One of the women is suing Dollar Tree in San Diego Superior Court. Her lawsuit claims that when she sought surveillance footage from the store after her alleged encounter, a manager informed her that the camera covering the aisle was not operational. Her attorney reported that the client is now fearful of shopping alone.
Nationwide, at least 11 women, including the three from San Diego, have reported similar alleged encounters inside Dollar Tree stores. Court documents claim videos of such incidents have surfaced on pornography websites and have become so notorious they have inspired a SoundCloud track, a cryptocurrency, and a custom Pokémon card.
Attorneys representing plaintiffs described a concerning online culture surrounding these alleged behaviors. They noted that while some women have posted videos to shame perpetrators, this can inadvertently grant them notoriety. One attorney highlighted that her client is now scared to go to the market or shop by herself.
Dollar Tree has denied all allegations in the lawsuit. A company spokesperson stated that the safety and security of associates and customers are top priorities. The company added that it takes reports of inappropriate, unlawful, or harassing behavior extremely seriously, finds any such incident unacceptable, and fully cooperates with law enforcement investigations when made aware of criminal activity.