COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol has issued a statement after it was reported some employees at a Condado Tacos location refused to fill an order for troopers.
According to Condado, three employees at the Polaris restaurant got into a heated discussion with management over fulfilling the order amid the protests of George Floyd’s death in Minnesota.
"Because we understand that emotions and tensions are raw right now, we offered those employees the option to sit out making that order, without repercussion, while other team members handled it," Condado said in a statement.
Condado said the employees chose not to complete their shifts and left, adding they respect the employees' feelings and their right to remove themselves from the situation. Condado added that these employees were not fired.
“We want to make it clear that they are welcome to return to work, if that is their choice, but they must understand that Condado Tacos is an inclusive business and that we will continue to serve everyone, including law enforcement,” the statement said.
Additionally, Condado said they stand behind their employees and value different points of view but choosing not to serve a particular group, in itself is discrimination.
As a result of the situation, Condado closed all of its Columbus locations on Tuesday. They said the Polaris and Clintonville locations will re-open soon but all other restaurants are open.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Ohio State Highway Patrol issued a statement saying:
"[Tuesday], the Patrol was made aware of a situation that occurred at the Polaris Condado Tacos. A large order was placed for personnel working the protests and while placing the order, which was fulfilled, the Patrol was treated with nothing but kindness and respect. At the time of the placing and receiving the order, we were unaware of any issues. The Patrol would welcome the opportunity to establish an open dialogue with the Condado’s employees in an effort to build inroads to open lines of communication that will help all of us. We are an agency who fosters understanding, communication and respect among all people."
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