Fake Money Stirs Trouble at In-N-Out Burger

Southern California Locations Targeted

In-N-Out Burger, a beloved fast-food chain, recently faced a wave of counterfeit money scams across Southern California. Two individuals, Tatiyanna Foster and Auriona Lewis, both from Long Beach, were caught using fake $100 bills to buy cheap items like fries and sandwiches. Police found Foster last month, while Lewis was arrested earlier in October.

The Scam Spreads

The scam wasn't small. It spread across many In-N-Out locations, not just in Los Angeles but also in Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. Police discovered Lewis with more fake money, gift cards, and receipts linked to similar scams. Foster is set to appear in court soon.

Legal Battle and Controversy

The legal side of this story is interesting. Lewis was charged with serious crimes, but her public defender, Elizabeth Lashley-Haynes, argued that the charges were too harsh. She pointed out that Black individuals often face tougher penalties in Los Angeles County. The district attorney's office, however, insisted that their decisions are based on facts, not background or identity.

In-N-Out Burger's Response

In-N-Out Burger praised the police for their quick action. The company has been around since 1948 and operates in nine states. Recently, an Oakland location closed due to rising crime and slow police response times. This shows how crime can impact even big, well-known businesses.