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Woman Faces Backlash At Work After A Food Thief With A Severe Allergy Steals Her Lunch
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Woman Faces Backlash At Work After A Food Thief With A Severe Allergy Steals Her Lunch

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Even if you love your job, there’s a good chance that your lunch break is one of your favorite parts of the day. You finally get to rest your brain, socialize with colleagues, take a walk to get some fresh air and enjoy a delicious meal that you’ve prepared. Assuming no one steals your lunch before you get to eat it, that is.

One woman recently posted on Reddit detailing some drama she experienced in her office surrounding a food thief, so below, you’ll find the full story, as well as some of the replies readers left her.

This woman knew that a colleague kept taking her lunches from the fridge

Image credits: Prostock-studio / envato (not the actual photo)

But nothing was done until he accidentally ate a meal that he was allergic to

Image credits: DragonImages / envato (not the actual photo)

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Image credits: One_Newspaper5657

Food theft is a common problem in many workplaces

In any workplace, there are a few unspoken rules that HR probably doesn’t feel the need to tell all new hires, but most employees understand. Keep your voice down in the office while others are trying to work, and don’t stick your nose in anyone else’s business. Be kind to your colleagues even if they annoy you, and show up on time every day. And of course, don’t touch anyone else’s food in the fridge.

But perhaps HR does need to be reminding every employee to keep their hands to themselves in the kitchen, because according to Zippia, one third of workers actually admit to stealing food from colleagues. And a whopping 47% of workers say they’ve been victims of food theft at work. 

When it comes to what lunch thieves choose to steal, Zippia reports that drinks are commonly swiped. Red Bull, juices, sodas and special coffees seem to disappear faster than any other drinks. Food on counters and in candy bowls are often seen as fair game too. And if you bring pizza into the office, you might want to be discreet about it, as 16% of workers believe that they don’t need permission if they want to steal a slice from a colleague. 

One in ten adults has a food allergy

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Image credits: Care_SMC / pexels (not the actual photo)

While it’s always rude to swipe a coworker’s lunch, it’s especially bold (and dangerous) to do so if you have an allergy. According to Food Allergy Research & Education, one in ten adults in the United States has a food allergy. Peanut allergies in particular are the second most common food allergy in the US, and they’re often among the most serious.          

Exposure to peanuts for someone with an allergy can be life threatening. It can cause skin reactions such as hives or swelling, itching or tingling in and around the mouth and throat, digestive problems, tightening of the throat, shortness of breath or wheezing, runny nose and anaphylaxis. Some people can even have symptoms from cross-contact or inhalation, without even having direct skin contact with peanuts or eating them.

To avoid coming into contact with peanuts, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends those with allergies be very careful about what they eat. Dining out or eating food at potlucks or prepared by strangers can pose a huge risk. Even bakeries and ice cream parlors that have peanuts present in some products might be dangerous, due to cross-contamination.  

Companies and workers can take action to prevent food theft in offices

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Image credits: drazenphoto / envato (not the actual photo)

Preventing food theft in the workplace is probably the last thing that HR wants to worry about, but we all know how important employee satisfaction is. And if you don’t even feel confident that your lunch will still be in the fridge waiting for you when it’s time to eat, you probably won’t feel very comfortable in your office. Essential HR recommends that companies provide workers with reminders to only eat what they bring in.

A sign on the fridge reminding everyone to label their food and keep their hands to themselves might discourage thieves. Emails alerting everyone about food theft might be helpful as well, as it might encourage workers to keep a closer eye on one another. And it can be wise to place the lunchroom in an area that’s visible to all, so nobody can sneak in unnoticed and eat another person’s lunch without getting caught.

But if your company isn’t doing enough to prevent theft, Essential HR suggests that employees bring “de-constructed” lunches, because thieves probably don’t want to put effort into assembling their meals. You might also try clearly labeling your food and using opaque bags or Tupperware containers, rather than leaving food in packaging that makes it clear what’s inside. And if all else fails, get a lock for your lunchbox.

Readers assured the woman that she did nothing wrong and called out her colleagues for blaming her for the theft

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sonja_6 avatar
Sonja
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why was Omar not fired for theft? Why did op not report him? Theft is theft. He was repeatedly called out, warned and eventually caught. He should have been fired. Not just for the theft, but also for lying and attack on a colleague. It doesn't matter that he was allergic. He was simply in the wrong.

suzyq_826 avatar
Rosemary .
Community Member
2 months ago

This comment has been deleted.

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shaunfisher avatar
Valaun
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The office being mad and HR requiring labels is akin to me stealing money from your desk, hurting myself while bypassing the lock, and people getting mad the person I was stealing from for locking their desk while HR issues a policy of making people leave their desk keys so it's easier for me to steal. Completely absurd. There should be no consequences for people putting whatever they like in their lunches. Without labels. If your dumb a*s has an allergy and is a thief, you deserve whatever happens.

hafizismail avatar
Hafiz Ismail
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why does he care to eat halal food since he stole it, it's also haram.

bjenkins3988 avatar
brittany
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my guess is like with many other people of many other religions and faiths, there will be those who pick and choose what they believe and practice to suit their own needs

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cynthiac_cutright avatar
The Mom
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would not have warned him of the peanuts. I would have let him suffer the consequences of his actions.

mjskywalk avatar
Mjskywalk
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They fired the food thief at my work. That’s how it should be. If a person is willing to steal from their coworkers they pry won’t have any qualms stealing from the company.

swi21 avatar
Kosnian
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's insanity, sounds like a very toxic environment, maybe the hijab plays a role on the other coworkers' attitude. Not the first time I heard/saw it. (I'm not Muslim, but live in a country that criminalized the use of face covering religion related clothing)

ellyross avatar
Eastendbird
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A hijab doesn't cover the face. You're thinking of a niqab. And why would that make a fellow Muslim think it would ok to steal her food? Surely, if anything that should induce a feeling of connection and respect?

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lewishughes avatar
Memento Mori
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As someone with the same allergy, I would NEVER eat food if I don't know what is in it, especially if its not even mine to begin with. Like if you have anaphylaxis it's the unwritten rule of don't eat anything unless you know for sure exactly what's in it. Unfortunately epipen doesn't fix stupidity

seramorris avatar
Sera
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also have food allergies and I cannot IMAGINE wantonly stealing unlabeled unknown food and just going to town on it with no idea what's in it and how and where it was prepared. There are times I won't eat food when I have been told what's in it and how it was prepared because something seems off about it! And this dude is just out here playing Russian roulette like Epipens grow on trees.

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kayrose avatar
judithremkes avatar
Judith Remkes
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This, she did everything she had to do. The thief had it coming. Wth is that company thinking?!

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jppennington avatar
JayWantsACat
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Making every label their food with allergens is asinine. What dumb workplace. I could understand making people label their food but not allergens. I'm so petty with what I think is dumb decisions by authority that I'd have labels made up that essentially say "may contain the following allergens:" and then list every known food allergen, pass those labels out to everyone, so they can just stick those on their food. Maliciously complying while also being a middle finger to that dumbass policy. And the people mad at OP because of this are stupid.

ohiomike5 avatar
Mike m
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They're expecting people with no training in nutrition to be in charge of the health of thieves. I don't have an allergy so i don't look at labels and i don't trust myself with that responsibility.

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sarah_a_tate avatar
Upstaged75
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WTF?? Do the coworkers know the whole story? How the fvck could they be mad at the thief's VICTIM? That's ridiculous!

justinsmith_1 avatar
Justin Smith
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Because it wasn't happening to them and they only care now that someonebalmost got hurt because of his own stupidity.

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gs_7 avatar
G S
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If it was my food that was stolen I wouldn't have warned him. Let him find out the hard way. It's ridiculous that the whole office has to adjust because of a thief... dude has some balls on him...

sky_thunder1384 avatar
Shadow
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's and easy fix to this, just write "All possible allergens" in permanent marker on the top of every container. Redo as needed.

conniebohone avatar
Beans
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Epipens don't magic anaphylaxis away forever, you always need an ER visit right after. This person has never been around a real person who has used one. This is BS.

infinitus avatar
InfiniteZeek
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would put a label saying " Hey Omar. Oh, what do we have today? Does it have peanuts? Does it not? Wanna find out MF?"

susanschlee avatar
Susan Schlee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Hello, I'd like to play a game..." From the "Saw" movies if anyone doesn't know.

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ohiomike5 avatar
Mike m
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thiefs have bad morals and should be fired on the spot.

philiprutter avatar
Philip Rutter
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Simple answer to this one! "Ok, Office. I will apologize, and admit it was wrong of me to put my food in the refrigerator - IF - IF - Omar will admit he is consitently a Liar and a Thief." See how that goes down.

maggzhng avatar
Maggie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

None of his argument makes sense and it doesn't make sense that HR is asking everyone to label THEIR food. They sided with OP on the argument, but they still worry about the safety of future theft...

chegoe69798 avatar
John L
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually it does...you do know that HR first's priority is the company well being. The guy gets sick and he could sue the company for a dangerous environment. I know.....it's not common sense, but it does make sense.

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pattyo_1 avatar
firecrackershrimp
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's because he's a man and she's a woman, plain and simple . That's why he got away with it.

gamerveeree avatar
Violet Radar
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a coworker steal half a sandwich once, so I sent an email to our department saying "Whomever you are, I dropped that half on the bus floor and was saving it for the dog". A new hire REPLIED TO ALL and said it was him and he was sorry. My work friends were laughing about him eating a bus floor sandwich, so I had to tell them that part was a lie.

lweldrick avatar
Lorraine Weldrick
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

“Notice. This is MY lunch. I spit on my food while preparing it. Thieves beware”

michelembennett1010att_net avatar
michele mbennett101044@yahoo.c
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What else is Omar stealing from other's desks? This a*****e should be fired, end of conversation.

kaylapearceyoung avatar
Kayla Pearce Young
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

EVERYONE should use the same label, provided by the company, printed on company time using the company printer: CONTAINS PEANUTS

carrotironfounderson avatar
Hey hey hey
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP should 'remind' Omar that eating a stolen Halal food is Haram. The food's status changed the moment he take OP's food.

nitka711 avatar
Nitka Tsar
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I will never understand this mentality of victim blaming. Did he face any consequences about stealing?

shdw107 avatar
Shadow
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, the allergen labels are nice. But I, personally, would print out small labels that all say "Contains ingredients that maybe harmful to thieves, Omar! Stealing is a CRIME Omar! This is NOT YOUR FOOD, Omar!" But then you risk the fool seeing his name on the lunch and taking it anyways. I would also tell Omar he owes you for however many lunches he stole. Pay up fool.

kaylapearceyoung avatar
Kayla Pearce Young
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Everyone needs to use the same label, printed on labels provided by the company and on the company printer! Contains peanuts

jennifersteiner avatar
Momifer
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Husband went through similar. Finally had enough and made cookies with laxative in them, and replaced his soda with urine. Not only did the thief spend a day in the bathroom, he got written up for it. Karma!

ronh_ avatar
JustABored1
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow!! Definitely NOT the AH!! He's not only a thief and a liar, he's a narcissistic gaslighter too! How he wasn't fired for stealing is beyond me?! And her coworkers are AHs too! She should have let him eat it all and not said anything!! Serve him right! 🤬

andyfrobig avatar
Andy Frobig
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you have serious allergies, why would you ever take your chances eating somebody else's food? And even if HR doesn't care about food theft, they should care about having an employee who blames other people for making his stealing inconvenient. He'll be more trouble down the line if they don't ditch him now

rgroper avatar
Robin Roper
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thief should be fired and HR is off base - play silly games, win silly prizes. Peanuts would be my new favorite food and I'd add them in every single food item I brought to work. This office is nuts.

micheldurinx avatar
Marcellus II
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What essential skill has this guy that he doesn't get released at the end of his probation?! Firing is too much paperwork probably, but quietly letting go is the only logical alternative.

eeyore163_1 avatar
Heather Menard
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have said nothing. When he goes into shock they would see your name on the lunch. The say well I didn't know he stole my lunch with my name on it.

shaunlee avatar
SheamusFanFrom1987
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, not sorry but if Omar had a seizure because of the peanuts, I'd personally wouldn't even feel pity. Nobody asked you to steal other people's food, and doing it to someone of the same faith? Should be downright considered not just haram but straight up haram jadah already.

katie_28 avatar
Katie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would recommend you sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of any leftovers you bring to work, with the additional of the “warning: contains peanuts” allergy label. Omar is clearly both immoral and stupid enough to continue gambling on stealing your food. If you bring any treats for the workplace, I’d ensure they have peanuts or peanut butter as well (peanut butter cookies, chocolate crazy cake with peanut butter frosting, etc.) .

checkered_vans avatar
HolyDiver
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would laugh if my work told me I had to label my food allergen specific. You pay for it and you can label it. Until then, kick rocks.

janelove avatar
JLo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Keep your food in a lunch bag in the fridge. You can even buy locks for them. Or keep it at your desk in a locked drawer in a lunch bag with a cold pack. BTW, How did he not see the peanuts in the food?? Also, add peanuts to all your food from now on.

myronmog avatar
moggie63
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just steal everybody's lunch from now on. You can always sell it on outside the building. Your coworkers should be fine with the stealing. If not, tell them to f**k off, arsewipes.

nojunk4beth avatar
Beth D
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Get labels that say CONTAINS ALLERGENS OR HAS BEEN MADE IN A KITCHEN WITH ALLERGENS - Which is probably True - then pass them out so everyone can use them. That should put an end to the crazy

nojunk4beth avatar
Beth D
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have labels printed that say CONTAINS ALLERGENS OR MADE IN KITCHEN CONTAINING ALLERGENS and pass them out so everyone can use them

dani_2525 avatar
Danielle Renee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First thing you learn in school is don’t steal. I would hope his parents taught him not to steal. Not your fault he still steals. I would have peanuts in all my food every day.

madmcqueen avatar
Mad McQueen
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had that here at work. But it was the fork lift guys new hire that was helping himself to their foods. Overnight crew. That made mgrs have a meeting about taking food you know isn't yours. He got caught. They (the crew) all met up an "talked" to him since they all had random food taken over about two weeks that he had started. Guess their talk worked. He also later on just stopped coming to work.

t_d_ avatar
T. D.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wouldn't have told him about the peanuts, until ( maybe ) he got back from urgent care. And let the chips fall where they may.

chegoe69798 avatar
John L
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You admit later, after all is said and done, they are more likely to try to sue you after all the trauma and expense, has happened. Do it or don't do it...NEVER admit to it.

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cerisehood_1 avatar
Cerise Hood
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ask the coworkers if they want to give their lunch to Omar.

ram31280 avatar
RAM31280
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Label everything you put in the fridge container peanuts and pork, and hot peppers too, cover all your bases.

silverskycloud avatar
SilverSkyCloud
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

from now on op should label her food "it might have peanuts, havent checked since IM not the one allergic to them"

clearcache avatar
Clear Cache
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So stupid to make anyone use allergy labels. Correct is to require full names and anyone stealing will be fired. Only the thief is endangering themselves as well as committing a crime and reason to get fired. Zero problems if you aren't stealing..smh

melodythomas avatar
Melody Thomas
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omar is an a*****e and imbecile "Ken". He shouldn't have stolen your food!!! That's what he gets. He should've been reprimanded or fired. Don't put labels on your lunch if he continues to steal your lunch may he choke on his greed and self entitlement

foxwithadragontattoo avatar
Fox with a Dragon Tattoo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why the f**k did she rush over and tell him. Im going to say YTA just for that. Let the lying theif p.o.s. have his near death experience. Once you let him know what you did youve shown intent, without that hes just the dumbass theif who steals peoples food.

sc_17 avatar
S C
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

seriously? he was STEALING her lunch and they want to blame her? NOT NOT NOT NTA he should be reprimanded or firec

judlaskowski avatar
Jude Laskowski
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No one, at all, anytime, ever has the right to steal someone else's food! Period. End of sentence. Omar should have had his a*s fired for theft immediately. I used to work in a clinic where some of the other staff thought it was ok to steal anyone's food. I kept my lunch in my locked desk. Luckily, I now work in an office where no one ever touches your food. If someone wants to share candy or cookies, they leave it on the table in the breakroom. You should see this place after Halloween! Personally, I think Omar stole her food because she's a woman, and he thinks he's "entitled".

angelwingsyt avatar
AngelWingsYT
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA if you have an allergy WHY EAT OTHER PEOPLES FOOD WHEN YOU DONT KNOW WHATS IN IT

lindaj1163 avatar
Linda Howell
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He is a male muslim. Women don't count in his society, so why not eat her food?

linnoff avatar
Linnoff
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Last place I worked, I was in charge of emptying the communal fridge every week or two. We had a roll of tape and a pen by the fridge so people could label their food. Friday at 5, if it wasn't labeled, it was tossed, if it was, I'd usually be able to return it. I felt a little bad about the dozens of containers I threw in the trash, but I'm not going to spend an hour washing everyone's dishes. It's crazy how many people got mad about lost containers, but wouldn't bother to label them.

weregargoyle avatar
WereGargoyle
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd go to the local news: "Employees Blame Victim for Food Thief Cumupence (sp)". If the employees want to blame you for how HR responded to a blatantly illegal action that should get him fired they want to sweep under the rug, let their friends and neighbors show how they feel about it. Let those they know outside of work blame them for being insensitive idiots.

ladyshiva87 avatar
Mirabelle Stonegate
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm wheat intolerant. Eating wheat will make me ill, thought not needing hospital. This would be akin to me deciding to eat someone's sandwich, then complaining I had to take a couple of sick days to recover. Ffs. I might not take much care with my lactose intolerance (it's mild enough), but I don't mess around with the wheat. Not when making a mistake once led to me nearly collapsing from fatigue in the middle of a road. I was still figuring things out then, though

kenbeattie avatar
Ken Beattie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One thing she should watch out for is him taking revenge by tainting her food in some way. I'd be really paranoid if I was her and forced to work in the same office as him.

eaislo avatar
Panda Bear
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why is stealing food such a problem? I swear every other day I hear a story about people getting their food stolen at work. No wonder everyone wants to switch to WFH.

juliacargile avatar
Julia Cargile
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why would you ask if you're the A when he's stealing your food. Please!

bjenkins3988 avatar
brittany
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i wonder if everyone including OP will now put allergen listings on their food regardless if it contains allergens just to keep him from stealing.

guessundheit avatar
Guess Undheit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She should be taking it directly to HR or the boss IMMEDIATELY, whichever applies. The fact that he used his epipen is proof that he did it. If he isn't fired, bring food with allergens EVERY DAY and tell the boss that you do, that if your food is stolen again, it's on Omar's own enlarged neck.

justme_26 avatar
Just Me
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depends how much revenge you want, if you are prepared to kill someone for stealing your lunch then go ahead, if not I would suggest you confront the person and speak with them.

ceciliamatthews avatar
Cecilia Matthews
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She did confront him (as explained in the post). He just lied to her face about it, and continued to steal from her.

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sonja_6 avatar
Sonja
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why was Omar not fired for theft? Why did op not report him? Theft is theft. He was repeatedly called out, warned and eventually caught. He should have been fired. Not just for the theft, but also for lying and attack on a colleague. It doesn't matter that he was allergic. He was simply in the wrong.

suzyq_826 avatar
Rosemary .
Community Member
2 months ago

This comment has been deleted.

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shaunfisher avatar
Valaun
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The office being mad and HR requiring labels is akin to me stealing money from your desk, hurting myself while bypassing the lock, and people getting mad the person I was stealing from for locking their desk while HR issues a policy of making people leave their desk keys so it's easier for me to steal. Completely absurd. There should be no consequences for people putting whatever they like in their lunches. Without labels. If your dumb a*s has an allergy and is a thief, you deserve whatever happens.

hafizismail avatar
Hafiz Ismail
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why does he care to eat halal food since he stole it, it's also haram.

bjenkins3988 avatar
brittany
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my guess is like with many other people of many other religions and faiths, there will be those who pick and choose what they believe and practice to suit their own needs

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cynthiac_cutright avatar
The Mom
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would not have warned him of the peanuts. I would have let him suffer the consequences of his actions.

mjskywalk avatar
Mjskywalk
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They fired the food thief at my work. That’s how it should be. If a person is willing to steal from their coworkers they pry won’t have any qualms stealing from the company.

swi21 avatar
Kosnian
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's insanity, sounds like a very toxic environment, maybe the hijab plays a role on the other coworkers' attitude. Not the first time I heard/saw it. (I'm not Muslim, but live in a country that criminalized the use of face covering religion related clothing)

ellyross avatar
Eastendbird
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A hijab doesn't cover the face. You're thinking of a niqab. And why would that make a fellow Muslim think it would ok to steal her food? Surely, if anything that should induce a feeling of connection and respect?

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lewishughes avatar
Memento Mori
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As someone with the same allergy, I would NEVER eat food if I don't know what is in it, especially if its not even mine to begin with. Like if you have anaphylaxis it's the unwritten rule of don't eat anything unless you know for sure exactly what's in it. Unfortunately epipen doesn't fix stupidity

seramorris avatar
Sera
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also have food allergies and I cannot IMAGINE wantonly stealing unlabeled unknown food and just going to town on it with no idea what's in it and how and where it was prepared. There are times I won't eat food when I have been told what's in it and how it was prepared because something seems off about it! And this dude is just out here playing Russian roulette like Epipens grow on trees.

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kayrose avatar
judithremkes avatar
Judith Remkes
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This, she did everything she had to do. The thief had it coming. Wth is that company thinking?!

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jppennington avatar
JayWantsACat
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Making every label their food with allergens is asinine. What dumb workplace. I could understand making people label their food but not allergens. I'm so petty with what I think is dumb decisions by authority that I'd have labels made up that essentially say "may contain the following allergens:" and then list every known food allergen, pass those labels out to everyone, so they can just stick those on their food. Maliciously complying while also being a middle finger to that dumbass policy. And the people mad at OP because of this are stupid.

ohiomike5 avatar
Mike m
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They're expecting people with no training in nutrition to be in charge of the health of thieves. I don't have an allergy so i don't look at labels and i don't trust myself with that responsibility.

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sarah_a_tate avatar
Upstaged75
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WTF?? Do the coworkers know the whole story? How the fvck could they be mad at the thief's VICTIM? That's ridiculous!

justinsmith_1 avatar
Justin Smith
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Because it wasn't happening to them and they only care now that someonebalmost got hurt because of his own stupidity.

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gs_7 avatar
G S
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If it was my food that was stolen I wouldn't have warned him. Let him find out the hard way. It's ridiculous that the whole office has to adjust because of a thief... dude has some balls on him...

sky_thunder1384 avatar
Shadow
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's and easy fix to this, just write "All possible allergens" in permanent marker on the top of every container. Redo as needed.

conniebohone avatar
Beans
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Epipens don't magic anaphylaxis away forever, you always need an ER visit right after. This person has never been around a real person who has used one. This is BS.

infinitus avatar
InfiniteZeek
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would put a label saying " Hey Omar. Oh, what do we have today? Does it have peanuts? Does it not? Wanna find out MF?"

susanschlee avatar
Susan Schlee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Hello, I'd like to play a game..." From the "Saw" movies if anyone doesn't know.

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ohiomike5 avatar
Mike m
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thiefs have bad morals and should be fired on the spot.

philiprutter avatar
Philip Rutter
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Simple answer to this one! "Ok, Office. I will apologize, and admit it was wrong of me to put my food in the refrigerator - IF - IF - Omar will admit he is consitently a Liar and a Thief." See how that goes down.

maggzhng avatar
Maggie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

None of his argument makes sense and it doesn't make sense that HR is asking everyone to label THEIR food. They sided with OP on the argument, but they still worry about the safety of future theft...

chegoe69798 avatar
John L
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually it does...you do know that HR first's priority is the company well being. The guy gets sick and he could sue the company for a dangerous environment. I know.....it's not common sense, but it does make sense.

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firecrackershrimp
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's because he's a man and she's a woman, plain and simple . That's why he got away with it.

gamerveeree avatar
Violet Radar
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a coworker steal half a sandwich once, so I sent an email to our department saying "Whomever you are, I dropped that half on the bus floor and was saving it for the dog". A new hire REPLIED TO ALL and said it was him and he was sorry. My work friends were laughing about him eating a bus floor sandwich, so I had to tell them that part was a lie.

lweldrick avatar
Lorraine Weldrick
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

“Notice. This is MY lunch. I spit on my food while preparing it. Thieves beware”

michelembennett1010att_net avatar
michele mbennett101044@yahoo.c
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What else is Omar stealing from other's desks? This a*****e should be fired, end of conversation.

kaylapearceyoung avatar
Kayla Pearce Young
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

EVERYONE should use the same label, provided by the company, printed on company time using the company printer: CONTAINS PEANUTS

carrotironfounderson avatar
Hey hey hey
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP should 'remind' Omar that eating a stolen Halal food is Haram. The food's status changed the moment he take OP's food.

nitka711 avatar
Nitka Tsar
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I will never understand this mentality of victim blaming. Did he face any consequences about stealing?

shdw107 avatar
Shadow
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, the allergen labels are nice. But I, personally, would print out small labels that all say "Contains ingredients that maybe harmful to thieves, Omar! Stealing is a CRIME Omar! This is NOT YOUR FOOD, Omar!" But then you risk the fool seeing his name on the lunch and taking it anyways. I would also tell Omar he owes you for however many lunches he stole. Pay up fool.

kaylapearceyoung avatar
Kayla Pearce Young
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Everyone needs to use the same label, printed on labels provided by the company and on the company printer! Contains peanuts

jennifersteiner avatar
Momifer
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Husband went through similar. Finally had enough and made cookies with laxative in them, and replaced his soda with urine. Not only did the thief spend a day in the bathroom, he got written up for it. Karma!

ronh_ avatar
JustABored1
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow!! Definitely NOT the AH!! He's not only a thief and a liar, he's a narcissistic gaslighter too! How he wasn't fired for stealing is beyond me?! And her coworkers are AHs too! She should have let him eat it all and not said anything!! Serve him right! 🤬

andyfrobig avatar
Andy Frobig
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you have serious allergies, why would you ever take your chances eating somebody else's food? And even if HR doesn't care about food theft, they should care about having an employee who blames other people for making his stealing inconvenient. He'll be more trouble down the line if they don't ditch him now

rgroper avatar
Robin Roper
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thief should be fired and HR is off base - play silly games, win silly prizes. Peanuts would be my new favorite food and I'd add them in every single food item I brought to work. This office is nuts.

micheldurinx avatar
Marcellus II
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What essential skill has this guy that he doesn't get released at the end of his probation?! Firing is too much paperwork probably, but quietly letting go is the only logical alternative.

eeyore163_1 avatar
Heather Menard
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have said nothing. When he goes into shock they would see your name on the lunch. The say well I didn't know he stole my lunch with my name on it.

shaunlee avatar
SheamusFanFrom1987
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, not sorry but if Omar had a seizure because of the peanuts, I'd personally wouldn't even feel pity. Nobody asked you to steal other people's food, and doing it to someone of the same faith? Should be downright considered not just haram but straight up haram jadah already.

katie_28 avatar
Katie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would recommend you sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of any leftovers you bring to work, with the additional of the “warning: contains peanuts” allergy label. Omar is clearly both immoral and stupid enough to continue gambling on stealing your food. If you bring any treats for the workplace, I’d ensure they have peanuts or peanut butter as well (peanut butter cookies, chocolate crazy cake with peanut butter frosting, etc.) .

checkered_vans avatar
HolyDiver
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would laugh if my work told me I had to label my food allergen specific. You pay for it and you can label it. Until then, kick rocks.

janelove avatar
JLo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Keep your food in a lunch bag in the fridge. You can even buy locks for them. Or keep it at your desk in a locked drawer in a lunch bag with a cold pack. BTW, How did he not see the peanuts in the food?? Also, add peanuts to all your food from now on.

myronmog avatar
moggie63
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just steal everybody's lunch from now on. You can always sell it on outside the building. Your coworkers should be fine with the stealing. If not, tell them to f**k off, arsewipes.

nojunk4beth avatar
Beth D
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Get labels that say CONTAINS ALLERGENS OR HAS BEEN MADE IN A KITCHEN WITH ALLERGENS - Which is probably True - then pass them out so everyone can use them. That should put an end to the crazy

nojunk4beth avatar
Beth D
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have labels printed that say CONTAINS ALLERGENS OR MADE IN KITCHEN CONTAINING ALLERGENS and pass them out so everyone can use them

dani_2525 avatar
Danielle Renee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First thing you learn in school is don’t steal. I would hope his parents taught him not to steal. Not your fault he still steals. I would have peanuts in all my food every day.

madmcqueen avatar
Mad McQueen
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had that here at work. But it was the fork lift guys new hire that was helping himself to their foods. Overnight crew. That made mgrs have a meeting about taking food you know isn't yours. He got caught. They (the crew) all met up an "talked" to him since they all had random food taken over about two weeks that he had started. Guess their talk worked. He also later on just stopped coming to work.

t_d_ avatar
T. D.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wouldn't have told him about the peanuts, until ( maybe ) he got back from urgent care. And let the chips fall where they may.

chegoe69798 avatar
John L
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You admit later, after all is said and done, they are more likely to try to sue you after all the trauma and expense, has happened. Do it or don't do it...NEVER admit to it.

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cerisehood_1 avatar
Cerise Hood
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ask the coworkers if they want to give their lunch to Omar.

ram31280 avatar
RAM31280
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Label everything you put in the fridge container peanuts and pork, and hot peppers too, cover all your bases.

silverskycloud avatar
SilverSkyCloud
Community Member
1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

from now on op should label her food "it might have peanuts, havent checked since IM not the one allergic to them"

clearcache avatar
Clear Cache
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So stupid to make anyone use allergy labels. Correct is to require full names and anyone stealing will be fired. Only the thief is endangering themselves as well as committing a crime and reason to get fired. Zero problems if you aren't stealing..smh

melodythomas avatar
Melody Thomas
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omar is an a*****e and imbecile "Ken". He shouldn't have stolen your food!!! That's what he gets. He should've been reprimanded or fired. Don't put labels on your lunch if he continues to steal your lunch may he choke on his greed and self entitlement

foxwithadragontattoo avatar
Fox with a Dragon Tattoo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why the f**k did she rush over and tell him. Im going to say YTA just for that. Let the lying theif p.o.s. have his near death experience. Once you let him know what you did youve shown intent, without that hes just the dumbass theif who steals peoples food.

sc_17 avatar
S C
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

seriously? he was STEALING her lunch and they want to blame her? NOT NOT NOT NTA he should be reprimanded or firec

judlaskowski avatar
Jude Laskowski
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No one, at all, anytime, ever has the right to steal someone else's food! Period. End of sentence. Omar should have had his a*s fired for theft immediately. I used to work in a clinic where some of the other staff thought it was ok to steal anyone's food. I kept my lunch in my locked desk. Luckily, I now work in an office where no one ever touches your food. If someone wants to share candy or cookies, they leave it on the table in the breakroom. You should see this place after Halloween! Personally, I think Omar stole her food because she's a woman, and he thinks he's "entitled".

angelwingsyt avatar
AngelWingsYT
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA if you have an allergy WHY EAT OTHER PEOPLES FOOD WHEN YOU DONT KNOW WHATS IN IT

lindaj1163 avatar
Linda Howell
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He is a male muslim. Women don't count in his society, so why not eat her food?

linnoff avatar
Linnoff
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Last place I worked, I was in charge of emptying the communal fridge every week or two. We had a roll of tape and a pen by the fridge so people could label their food. Friday at 5, if it wasn't labeled, it was tossed, if it was, I'd usually be able to return it. I felt a little bad about the dozens of containers I threw in the trash, but I'm not going to spend an hour washing everyone's dishes. It's crazy how many people got mad about lost containers, but wouldn't bother to label them.

weregargoyle avatar
WereGargoyle
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd go to the local news: "Employees Blame Victim for Food Thief Cumupence (sp)". If the employees want to blame you for how HR responded to a blatantly illegal action that should get him fired they want to sweep under the rug, let their friends and neighbors show how they feel about it. Let those they know outside of work blame them for being insensitive idiots.

ladyshiva87 avatar
Mirabelle Stonegate
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm wheat intolerant. Eating wheat will make me ill, thought not needing hospital. This would be akin to me deciding to eat someone's sandwich, then complaining I had to take a couple of sick days to recover. Ffs. I might not take much care with my lactose intolerance (it's mild enough), but I don't mess around with the wheat. Not when making a mistake once led to me nearly collapsing from fatigue in the middle of a road. I was still figuring things out then, though

kenbeattie avatar
Ken Beattie
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One thing she should watch out for is him taking revenge by tainting her food in some way. I'd be really paranoid if I was her and forced to work in the same office as him.

eaislo avatar
Panda Bear
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why is stealing food such a problem? I swear every other day I hear a story about people getting their food stolen at work. No wonder everyone wants to switch to WFH.

juliacargile avatar
Julia Cargile
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why would you ask if you're the A when he's stealing your food. Please!

bjenkins3988 avatar
brittany
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i wonder if everyone including OP will now put allergen listings on their food regardless if it contains allergens just to keep him from stealing.

guessundheit avatar
Guess Undheit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She should be taking it directly to HR or the boss IMMEDIATELY, whichever applies. The fact that he used his epipen is proof that he did it. If he isn't fired, bring food with allergens EVERY DAY and tell the boss that you do, that if your food is stolen again, it's on Omar's own enlarged neck.

justme_26 avatar
Just Me
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depends how much revenge you want, if you are prepared to kill someone for stealing your lunch then go ahead, if not I would suggest you confront the person and speak with them.

ceciliamatthews avatar
Cecilia Matthews
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She did confront him (as explained in the post). He just lied to her face about it, and continued to steal from her.

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