A former fast-food employee in Florida has been arrested after investigators say he stole more than $80,000 from a restaurant through an alleged fake refund scheme that went on for months.
The accused, Keyshun Jones, 23, is now facing multiple criminal charges, including property theft, money laundering, and evading arrest.
Police say Jones allegedly used his former workplace, Chick-fil-A, to carry out the fraudulent refund operation.
Restaurant Owner Reports Missing Money
According to investigators, the case began in November 2025 when the owner of a Chick-fil-A location in Florida reported suspicious financial losses to authorities.
Police launched an investigation and began reviewing surveillance footage from inside the restaurant.
During that review, investigators allegedly identified Jones as the main suspect.
Former Employee Allegedly Returned After Being Fired
Police say Jones had been fired from the restaurant about a month before the theft was reported.
Despite no longer working there, investigators claim he returned to the restaurant and went behind the counter without permission.
Authorities say he accessed the cash register and began processing fake customer orders.
Mac and Cheese Orders Used in Refund Scheme
According to investigators, Jones allegedly rang up orders for Macaroni and cheese before immediately processing refunds.
Police believe the refund money was then sent directly to his personal credit cards.
Investigators say this process was repeated multiple times over several transactions.
By the time the fraud was discovered, authorities say the total stolen amount had exceeded $80,000.
Suspect Allegedly Avoided Arrest for Months
Police say Jones managed to avoid officers on several occasions while investigators attempted to locate him.
After months of searching, authorities finally arrested him on April 17.
He is now in custody while investigators continue building the case.
Additional Charges Include Money Laundering
Because the stolen money allegedly moved through personal financial accounts, Jones is also facing money laundering charges.
Authorities have not yet released full details about how the funds were used or whether additional suspects may be involved.
Police say the investigation remains active.
Questions Remain About Previous Termination
Officials have not publicly disclosed why Jones was originally fired from the restaurant.
Investigators also have not confirmed how long the alleged refund scheme may have been happening before it was discovered.
As the case continues, more financial records and surveillance evidence may be reviewed.
