San Diego Jack in the Box Sprinklers Drench Customers in Anti-Loitering Measure

A Jack in the Box restaurant in downtown San Diego has implemented an aggressive anti-loitering system that includes sprinklers and a recorded audio message, but the measure has backfired, drenching customers and sparking criticism. The sprinklers, installed on the building, are meant to discourage people from lingering outside the eatery.

A recorded announcement plays when the sprinklers activate, addressing "loiters" and stating, "You are blocking the drive-thru. Buy something or bounce. The clown is watching. Move. Now. Jack says so." The message appears to reference the fast-food chain's original mascot, Jack.

Residents in the area have noted that homeless individuals frequently gather around the restaurant. The sprinklers began operating last week and are set to run in intervals around the Jack in the Box.

Customers have reported being unexpectedly sprayed by the water. One customer, Brandi James, told ABC 10 that she was drenched along with her electric bike while leaving the restaurant, causing damage to the bike. She described the experience as harassment and disrespectful, particularly as a paying customer.

Another individual, Donica McArthur, also reported getting soaked without warning. She expressed shock and felt disrespected, questioning the humanity of the tactic and suggesting it could be particularly harmful to vulnerable individuals.

In response to the feedback, a spokesperson for Jack in the Box stated that the location uses an audio device to maintain a safe and clean environment. However, they clarified that the specific voice recording used did not align with the company's brand standards or values and was not approved. The spokesperson confirmed that the system has been immediately disabled.