Dairy Queen manager accused of making workers eat ice cream mixed with cleaner

28 February 2024 , 21:45

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The workers allegedly were forced to consume ice cream contaminated with a cleaning solution (Image: Getty Images)

A manager at a Dairy Queen store reportedly forced teen workers to eat ice cream laced with a cleaning solution, sending many of them to the hospital.

The brazen incident occurred at the chain's franchise in Campton, Kentucky, with concerned parents speaking out after alleging that their children were forced to consume ice cream contaminated with a cleaning solution while on the job.

Angela Patton, one of the workers' parents, expressed her outrage over the incident. She said: "Oh, I was livid. I was livid." According to Patton, last Friday night her 17-year-old daughter was summoned to attend a mandatory meeting with the rest of the employees and the manager at the Campton Dairy Queen.

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The brazen incident occurred at the Dairy Queen store in Campton, Kentucky (Newsflash)

During the meeting, employees were purportedly instructed by the manager to consume ice cream that had been tainted with cleaning solution. Patton said: "They were told by the manager that whether or not they liked chocolate ice cream, they were going to eat it today."

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Following the consumption of the contaminated dessert, several employees reportedly experienced adverse effects and went to the hospital to seek medical attention. Patton said: "Some of the kids had complained that they had a burning sensation when they swallowed the ice cream."

Approximately eight employees, many of whom were minors, were allegedly involved in the incident. Some, including Patton's daughter, resigned from their positions in the aftermath. The manager of the store has been fired, the company said, and an investigation into the brazen incident is ongoing.

'Oh, I was livid. I was livid' said Angela Patton, one of the workers' parents (Newsflash)

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Authorities from the Wolfe County Sheriff’s Office have confirmed that they are investigating the matter. Deputy Elijah Banks stated, "We still have multiple people coming in to give statements, but as of now, it’s still under investigation."

Due to the involvement of juveniles, Deputy Banks indicated limitations on what information could be disclosed. The sheriff's office is collaborating with the county attorney to determine appropriate legal action.

As of now, no charges have been filed, but Patton expressed her hope for accountability. She said: "I do have a meeting scheduled with a lawyer. What they’ve done is not right."

Campton Dairy Queen franchise owner Steve Caudill said in a statement sent to WKYT: "The safety of our fans and crew members is our top priority. When we received complaints, we immediately began an investigation, which is ongoing.

"The manager involved is no longer employed at our restaurant. Know that we contacted local law enforcement to assist and we are fully cooperating with their investigation."

Vassia Barba