BETHLEHEM, Pennsylvania -- A couple was charged with theft for refusing to tip a waitress for what they say was horrible service.
The two college students had dinner with a group of friends and didn't feel the service warranted the 18% mandatory gratuity.
They claim they had to wait almost an hour for an order of chicken fingers and fries, had to find their silverware for the table, and had to get their own drinks.
So when the $73.00 bill arrived at their table, the group paid for the food, drinks, and tax but not the $16.00 tip. When they explained their reasons to the bartender, he called police, and they were arrested.
"Nobody wants to be forced to pay a tip or get arrested for terrible service," explained Leslie Pope, who was arrested.
"I understand that we did not pay the gratuity," said John Wagner, who was also arrested. "But it was a gratuity. It's something that's not required."
Police say the pair were charged with theft because the gratuity was part of the actual bill, but that the charges probably will not hold up in court.
