[SOLVED] Is there any way to get the evidence of one [member of] staff stealing ?

[ander9288]

I am helping in my sister's restaurant. Last week, I found one of the employees steals the tips. I haven't exposed the staff because she always works hard and she has worked in the restaurant for over 1 year. I have no idea how long she has been doing this. I told my sister but both of us are now in a dilemma. We think we should install more cameras and video management software like briefcam or skyrec to get the enough evidence of her stealing, then go talk to her. But we still want to know if there is a better way to solve this. Please advise, thanks.

 

[lvt]

What is the tips rule in your sister's restaurant?

 

[Ralston18]

@Ivt makes a good point.

Could be a general misunderstanding and possibly that other staff are "stealing" as well.

Installing cameras etc. usually becomes accusatory and may upset both staff and customers.

My inclination would be to take the staff member aside for a chat but be sure to have non-family witnesses there as well.

That said, the described problem and behavior involves HR matters and potentially criminal matters. Any actions you take could backfire on you if mishandled in any manner.

Being a small restaurant your sister likely has neither HR nor legal counsel.

My suggestion is to seek out some organization that provides free legal counseling. Take the facts and evidence with you and get legal advice.

[For the record: I am not a lawyer and not offering any legal advice.]

Your dilemma is not at all uncommon. Get outside assistance and guidance.

 

[Corwin65]

I've never terminated anyone for stealing. Instead I use "improper cash handling procedures".

That said, consult an attorney.

 

[tonyrayy]

I'm own a small integration company and two restaurants. If I were you, I would definitely get more cameras to check how often she steals the tips. Maybe wait for a week or two, then go talk to her, see what her problem is.

 

[ander9288]

I'm own a small integration company and two restaurants. If I were you, I would definitely get more cameras to check how often she steals the tips. Maybe wait for a week or two, then go talk to her, see what her problem is.

I ask a lot of ppl how to solve this problem, they recommended me to use video management software like briefcam or skyrec, do u have any ideas?

 

[Nigel Spike]

Knowing your location/country may help, since there can be legal restrictions to what you are allowed to do, depending on country.

 

[ohio_buckeye]

Probably best to consult an attorney and ask what rights you have in the area you are in before you start doing stuff.