Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

McDonald's in $1.5m lawsuit sparked by 'napkin dispute'

Customer reportedly said he was mistreated after he asked for more serviettes at the California outlet

Antonia Molloy
Friday 28 February 2014 06:55 EST
Comments
Webster Lucas claimed the incident caused him "emotional distress", according to TMZ
Webster Lucas claimed the incident caused him "emotional distress", according to TMZ (GETTY)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A man is suing McDonald’s for $1.5m in a dispute allegedly sparked off by the fact that he was given only one napkin with his meal.

Webster Lucas claimed he is “unable to work” due to the “emotional distress” caused by the incident at the outlet in Pacoima, California, TMZ reported.

Lucas launched the lawsuit following the confrontation on 29 January.

He claimed he was given one serviette when he ordered a quarter pounder deluxe, but when he went to the counter to ask for more, the manager refused to give him any.

Lucas, who is African-American, alleged that the Mexican-American manager was racist towards him and mumbled something that sounded like “you people”.

He subsequently emailed the fast-food chain to complain, saying has had suffered “undue mental anguish” as a result of the incident.

According to TMZ, he was offered free burgers, but is now seeking $1.5m in compensation.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in