A former Ford employee is preparing to sue the automaker and food services company Aramark after he was dismissed over allegations of stealing a $1.95 packet of cookies, despite later proving that the purchase had been successfully paid for.
According to reports, Kurt Kromm, a 60-year-old electrician, worked at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville for 11 years before being terminated over what was believed to be an unpaid purchase at a self-checkout kiosk.
The incident occurred during an overnight shift in May when Kromm, who has diabetes, bought a packet of cookies after experiencing low blood sugar. He said the payment terminal displayed an error message when he swiped his debit card, prompting him to try again. Although the machine did not display a confirmation message, he assumed the transaction had been processed.
About a week later, Kromm was informed that he was being dismissed over the alleged unpaid purchase and was escorted out of the facility. He later reviewed his bank statement, which showed the $1.95 transaction had been successfully completed, and submitted the evidence to Ford and union representatives.
Ford subsequently reinstated Kromm, paid him approximately $33,000 in back wages and offered him his job back after verifying the payment. However, he declined the offer, saying the incident had irreparably damaged his trust in the company.
Kromm has now retained legal counsel to pursue claims against both Ford and Aramark, alleging that the companies failed to properly investigate the matter before terminating his employment. His attorney has argued that evidence confirming the payment was available from the outset and that the allegations of theft were unfounded.
In response to media queries, Ford reportedly said it does not comment on pending litigation but is reviewing instances where issues with Aramark-operated self-checkout kiosks have been reported. Aramark also declined to comment on the potential legal action, stating that it does not discuss ongoing or anticipated litigation.
The case has drawn attention to the importance of thorough workplace investigations and due process before disciplinary action is taken against employees.
