Three arrests were made after a Union, South Carolina customer reported an alleged Wendys food tampering incident at the Wendy’s drive‑thru that prompted a police investigation. Authorities say the arrests stem from a May 31 complaint that a replacement order given to the customer was actually food taken back from her vehicle and, according to the report, had been spit on.
What police say about Wendys food tampering
Union police and local reporting identify those charged as Aaliyah Shuntai Sanders, 23; Trinity Lashell Rice, 19; and Shadela Crystal Holley. According to coverage by Fox Carolinas and Fox News, prosecutors booked the three on counts described as tampering with a human drug product or food item. The reports stress these are allegations and the criminal cases remain pending.
How the incident unfolded
Local and national reports say the episode began May 31 at the Wendy’s in Union. Police and the customer’s account indicate she returned to the drive‑thru to complain about her original order and accepted a refund; employees took the returned food from her vehicle so a replacement could be prepared.
The customer accepted what was presented to her as a new order and drove away, the reports say. While she was en route, someone from the restaurant called to warn that an employee had pulled the original food from a trash can and spat on it. After checking the replacement, the customer concluded the item appeared to be the same food she had returned and contacted police.
Timeline (concise)
- May 31 — Customer reports a drive‑thru refund and later alleges the replacement was old food pulled from a trash can.
- June 16–22 — Local outlets report the three employees were arrested on separate days in Union.
- June 23 — Fox Carolinas published local reporting identifying arrests; Fox News also covered the case and said it reached out to Wendy’s for comment.
Restaurant response and investigation
The restaurant manager told the customer he had spoken with staff and, according to Fox Carolinas, confirmed aspects of her account. The manager also reported that employees involved were written up while law enforcement began its investigation. Fox News noted its digital desk contacted Wendy’s for comment; the chain’s official response was not included in those reports.
Local reporting indicates the three arrests were made on separate days between June 16 and June 22 in Union. Police statements quoted in the local coverage describe the charges but do not establish guilt; formal charges must be proven in court. Readers should expect criminal case filings, arraignments and potential court appearances in the coming weeks as records become available.
What customers should know about food safety and next steps
Allegations of tampering raise legitimate food‑safety concerns. If you suspect tampering at a restaurant, refuse the item and avoid consuming it. If possible, keep the item intact and refrigerated or otherwise preserved so it can be examined by health inspectors or law enforcement. Preserve receipts, order confirmations, and any digital records of payment or the order.
Report suspected tampering to local police and to your municipal or county health department so investigators can document the facts and, if appropriate, test or inspect food handling at the location. Ask restaurant managers for a refund and a written incident report; that documentation can help police and public‑health officials.
Legally, tampering allegations are criminal matters handled by prosecutors; those accused are entitled to due process. Victims who want to pursue civil remedies should consult an attorney about options like restitution or civil claims, while criminal charging decisions rest with local prosecutors and court filings.
What comes next
Police investigations and any court filings will provide official details about charges, case numbers and scheduled hearings. Local media will likely update coverage as arrests are processed and as prosecutors file charges. Union residents concerned about the specific Wendy’s location should monitor announcements from the Union Police Department and the local health department for any inspection results or further statements.
Source attribution: Reporting by Fox Carolinas and Fox News. Original coverage: Fox News; local reporting: Fox Carolinas. Those reports cite police statements and a store manager’s comments; Fox News said it reached out to Wendy’s for comment.
