Two individuals have been implicated in a widespread counterfeit bill scheme targeting numerous In-N-Out Burger locations across Southern California. Glendale police reported that 26-year-old Tatiyanna Foster and 24-year-old Auriona Lewis, both from Long Beach, allegedly used fake $100 bills to make purchases at various restaurants in the region.
Foster was taken into custody last month, while Lewis was arrested in October during an operation conducted by the U.S. Marshals Task Force in Palmdale. Images released by authorities showcased the counterfeit bills used to purchase a $2.53 order of fries and a $5.93 order of a Flying Dutchman. In November, the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office charged Lewis with felony counterfeiting and grand theft.
Elizabeth Lashley-Haynes, the public defender representing Lewis, stated that her client, now identified as 25 years old, is presumed innocent. Lashley-Haynes criticized the decision to pursue felony charges instead of misdemeanors, raising questions about racial disparities in the criminal justice system. “The real story is about why are Black people disproportionately charged with felonies in Los Angeles County,” she remarked.
In response, the district attorney’s office emphasized that their charging decisions are determined purely by the facts and evidence related to each case, asserting that individuals are not charged based on their background or identity.
As the investigation progressed, police revealed that Lewis was found with counterfeit bills resembling those used in the recent Glendale incidents. Alongside the fraudulent currency, she had numerous gift cards and transaction receipts believed to be tied to similar scams. A spokesperson for In-N-Out Burger confirmed that the alleged scheme had also affected locations in Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.
Denny Warnick, the Chief Operations Officer of In-N-Out, expressed gratitude for the quick action taken by law enforcement, stating, “Their dedication and expertise resulted in the identification and apprehension of the suspects, helping to protect our business and our communities.” He underscored the importance of collaboration with law enforcement in fostering safer neighborhoods.
Founded in 1948 in Baldwin Park, In-N-Out Burger operates restaurants in nine states. The company is currently navigating some challenges, as evidenced by a recent closure of an Oakland location attributed to crime and slow police response times. Last year, Chief Executive Lynsi Snyder announced plans to relocate her family to Tennessee, though the burger chain’s headquarters will remain in California. Foster is expected to appear in court later this month as the case unfolds.
