Controversy brewed: Starbucks fires worker, internet is in frenzy

A Starbucks worker in Norwalk has been dismissed after a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy was served a disposable coffee cup featuring a hand-drawn pig. The incident sparked a swift response from both Starbucks and the Sheriff’s Department.

The deputy, who was on a 16-hour shift, shared on his private Instagram that he had stopped at the drive-thru for a coffee when he received the cup. He described the experience as “discouraging and disrespectful,” adding, “All I wanted was caffeine, but instead I left feeling uneasy.”

Starbucks confirmed it had investigated the matter and decided to terminate the employee involved. A spokesperson, Jaci Anderson, clarified that while the drawing was not intended to offend, it was inappropriate. The artwork referenced a meme known as “John Pork” and had been created earlier in the day.

“This was unacceptable. We have reached out to the customer multiple times, as well as leaders in the Sheriff’s Department, to apologise,” Anderson said. “Every guest should feel welcomed and respected in our stores.”

Following the incident, LA County Sheriff Robert Luna contacted Starbucks’ corporate security team to raise concerns and ensure proper accountability. The department also stated that Luna spoke directly with the deputy to check on his well-being.

The Sheriff’s Department highlighted that pig imagery has historically been used to insult law enforcement, calling the drawing “offensive, inappropriate, and unacceptable.”

The story drew a variety of reactions online, ranging from support for the deputy to skepticism about the response. Some commenters questioned whether the post was meant as satire, while others joked about internal investigations and law enforcement culture.

An article by Los Angeles Times shared internet comments where one Facebook user wrote, “The deputy didn’t shoot the barista, so I chalk this up as a win,” while another noted, “Law enforcement is a thankless job.”