Ex-King Soopers Employee Defends Filming Shoplifters: 'Always Do the Right Thing'

Created: JANUARY 27, 2025

Santino Burrola, an Army veteran recently dismissed from his position at a Colorado King Soopers grocery store, stands by his decision to film shoplifters. He maintains that his actions were justified, emphasizing his commitment to doing what's right, regardless of the consequences.

The incident unfolded on Father's Day, when Burrola recorded three individuals loading approximately $500 worth of laundry detergent into their vehicle. As they departed, Burrola peeled back a piece of aluminum foil obscuring the license plate, a move that proved crucial in assisting law enforcement with their identification and subsequent apprehension of the driver.

aluminum foil covers license plate

The store, however, terminated Burrola's employment, citing a violation of company policy that prohibits employees from pursuing or intervening in theft situations. Despite this, Burrola expressed on "Fox & Friends" that he would repeat his actions without hesitation, driven by his deeply held values.

In an earlier interview on "Jesse Watters Primetime," Burrola, a former military police officer, clarified that a supervisor had initially requested him to obtain the vehicle's license plate number. While recording the incident, Burrola verbally addressed the shoplifters, questioning their actions without physically engaging them.

Thanks to Burrola's prompt action in uncovering the license plate, law enforcement was able to arrest 32-year-old Jorge Pantoja, the driver of the vehicle. The two other individuals involved remain at large, according to Arapahoe Sheriff Department Investigator Erik Vancleave.

Clerk Santino Burrola, fired for filming alleged shoplifters, speaks out

King Soopers, a Kroger subsidiary, stated that it has established security protocols to deter crime and de-escalate confrontations, minimizing risks to its employees. The company declined to comment specifically on Burrola's termination, citing personnel confidentiality.

Burrola is reportedly planning a move to Florida, and a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated by a family member to assist with relocation expenses. He concluded his interview by reiterating his commitment to integrity and doing what is right, regardless of whether or not he is being observed.

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