A Missouri waitress, Liahna Bertels, was allegedly pulled off a dock and into a lake by a group of diners who tried to skip out on a $150 bill at Fish and Company restaurant on the Lake of the Ozarks. The incident was sparked by Bertels refusing to serve a drink to a woman without proper identification. After a kitchen delay, the group wanted to leave, and Bertels offered to pack their meals to-go. However, before they could pay, they headed back to their boat on the dock. Bertels chased them and was pulled into the water by a member of the group. The Camdenton Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident as misdemeanor assault and believes the suspects are from out of state. An image of a man believed to be with the group has come forward and is cooperating. In response, the restaurant has made changes to how they handle similar situations, including having staff notify someone and take a partner when necessary to ensure employees’ safety. General Manager Sean Dolven stated that the goal is to have someone present to witness any incidents that might occur, as cameras don’t always capture everything. Bertels described feeling hurt and crying in the water after the ordeal. Despite the traumatic experience, she was able to pull herself onto a swim platform on a docked boat about 10 minutes later. The waitress is hopeful that justice will be served as the investigation continues.
Source
Photo credit nypost.com
