Investigators say a local woman has become an expert at avoiding her bill at restaurants. Her most recent crime marks her eighth arrest in just three months. NBC10’s George Spencer reports the local restaurant industry is relieved by this arrest.
A Philadelphia woman is accused of walking out of a restaurant without paying her bill — for the eighth time!
Janeen Thomas has been charged with theft after restaurant workers say she neglected to pay her bill Tuesday night at the vegan eatery Vedge on Locust Street.
Thomas enjoyed three long island ice teas and a full-course meal, according to the restaurant. She then allegedly told wait staff she was going outside to smoke, but never returned.
Tuesday's incident isn't the first time Thomas has been arrested for ditching her bill. Since February, Thomas has avoided paying her bill at least seven times.
“I think she’s extremely opportunistic," Philadelphia resident Monica Antonucci said. "I think we live in an age where people can conscious just about everything they want.”
Police cautioned Center City restaurants to remain on the lookout for Thomas with a social media post warning of her habit.
"Unfortunately, it's not a victimless crime. We're actually losing money to wait on that table," restaurant manager Matt Deutsch said. "You're paying to wait on that table."
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Thomas was jailed in lieu of $35,000.
