Deekshit R.
Google
Subject
Formal Complaint Regarding Aggressive Behaviour, False Accusations, Threats, Mental Distress, and Unfair Store Ban
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to formally complain about a very distressing and upsetting incident involving a staff member and a female manager at one of your Sainsbury’s stores.
I am 19 years old, and I was shopping with two other people at the time. I purchased three chicken items and scanned all three correctly at the self-checkout. I also scanned and paid for all other items. I honestly explained to staff that I had accidentally forgotten to scan one KitKat chocolate worth £1, which was a genuine mistake.
Despite my honesty, a staff member behaved in an extremely aggressive manner. I was repeatedly accused of not scanning one of the chicken items, told “do not lie,” and informed that CCTV was being watched. The staff member used rude and inappropriate language towards me, which was humiliating and frightening.
When the manager arrived, instead of calmly listening to my explanation, the manager also behaved aggressively, raised her voice, and continued to blame and accuse me. I was threatened that the police would be informed and that I could be deported. As a 19-year-old, this treatment was overwhelming and caused me significant mental distress.
At the time, the receipt for the chicken items was with my friend. When I later showed the receipt, it clearly proved that all three chicken items had been scanned and paid for. Only after this proof was shown was the chicken item returned to me. However, despite it being proven that I had told the truth and had fully cooperated, I was still informed that I was banned from the store.
Being shouted at, accused of lying, threatened, and banned despite clear proof has left me feeling mentally disturbed and distressed. No apology was offered for the false accusations, aggressive behaviour, or the threats made against me.
I believe the behaviour of both the staff member and the manager was unprofessional and inappropriate, particularly towards a young customer. I respectfully request that this incident be fully investigated, that the store ban be reviewed and reconsidered, and that appropriate action be taken to ensure customers are treated with respect and dignity.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.