I wish Burger King would sue the person for tarnishing their brand, or something. I feel like violating people's food should engender more serious consequences than the loss of a minimum wage job.
The last claim is predicated on the idea that many low-wage/fast food jobs are held by teenagers who, biologically/neurologically are not wired to consider longer-term consequences. I'll find a cite if needed.
So, I'd ask, how responsible is BK for developing a business model that puts low-wage workers front and center as their primary point of production and primary point of contact with consumers?
Lastly, if BK did bring suit, what do you think they'd be able to recover? At best, garnishing minimum wages – if the person had better financial reserves or means, they'd likely not be working production at BK.
The lawsuit would be punitive, not for profit.
And it wouldn't hurt their PR to assure people that the safe handling of their food is taken seriously.
The rapid firing of the employee did a lot to keep BK's reputation...or at least made it no worse. Indeed, the morning manager's instant decision to fire the person is a clear signal.
Suing him would probably end up looking bad for BK – certainly worse than the incident was.
Edit: looks like it varies from state-to-state and the federal act is harder to prosecute for. Here's a decent write-up: http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/explainer/20... Since he's in Ohio it'll probably be a misdemeanor.
1) Suing him would only further tarnish their brand, as more people would learn about it.
2) Sue him for what? Buddy's unemployed and his last job was at BK. I'd be surprised if he had more than $100 to his name.
I have to wonder though—in this economy, if you're working a minimum-wage job, losing it must be pretty damned harsh, since there are so many people ready to step up to that job.