It is a trial that makes people shake their heads: four women and four men appeared in court in Graz last week for allegedly stealing waste. That’s why they were fired by their employer.
The house rules in the supermarket apparently prescribe that food that is no longer usable is thrown away. But instead of throwing away the ‘food and drinks’ stated in the complaint (worth less than €5,000), the employees packed it up and took it home. This not only resulted in the dismissal of a number of long-time employees, but also in charges. A detective eventually arrested the “garbage thieves”.
Tolerated practice?
They explained to the court that taking goods that were no longer usable had been a tolerated practice for years. However, seven of the eight defendants ultimately agreed to a diversion to probation. That means: if they do nothing for a year, it’s history. The Eighth must be dealt with separately because he did not confess.
“Waste can still have market value”
Meanwhile, one of the lawyers was incomprehensible: “In my opinion, only someone who steals something of value can commit theft.”
AK labor law expert Lorenz Kavallar explains: “Objectively speaking, it may be nonsense, but it may still have a market value.” And it was apparently announced that it is not allowed to take goods with you. Termination could therefore be justified. However, in terms of legal policy, the whole matter could be reconsidered in times of a throwaway society…
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
