Movie Theater Worker Assaulted Over Outside Drinks Policy

A movie theater employee was allegedly assaulted by a woman and her boyfriend after refusing to allow her to bring outside beverages into a Regency Theatres location in Van Nuys, California. The incident occurred Tuesday evening.

The theater worker, identified as Ruby Arcos Delacruz, stated she was enforcing the establishment's policy of not permitting outside food and drinks when the confrontation began. According to Delacruz, she asked to inspect a customer's bag and found four cans of beverages. She informed the customer that outside drinks were not allowed and suggested she store them in her car.

Delacruz reported that the customer became verbally abusive and then handed the drinks to a male companion, who took them outside. While waiting for his return, the woman allegedly continued to berate Delacruz. Upon their return, the woman reportedly struck Delacruz multiple times in the face.

When the manager intervened, he also became a target of the couple's aggression. The woman allegedly punched the manager, knocking his glasses off, and then stomped on them. The male companion also joined the physical altercation. Video footage captured employees and the couple engaged in a struggle, with one employee appearing to use a broomstick.

Delacruz mentioned that security personnel were on a break when the violence erupted. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a battery call at approximately 7:45 p.m. Tuesday. The suspects had reportedly left the premises before officers arrived. Paramedics treated individuals for minor injuries, and a battery report was filed. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.

Delacruz expressed her distress on social media, stating, "All for 4 fucking drinks. I tell her policy and she responds with violence. I don’t get paid enough to deal with guests such as her and her boyfriend." The incident drew significant reaction online, with many commenters expressing support for the theater staff.