Cops: McDonald's boss punches mom with service dog

[July 22, 2011]  ATLANTA, Ga. (AP) -- A McDonald's manager in the Atlanta area is accused of punching a mother after she brought her autistic children and a service dog inside the restaurant, authorities said.

Tiffany Denise Allen is charged with simple battery, simple assault and disorderly conduct, according to a Cobb County warrant.

Jennifer Schwenker entered the McDonald's in Marietta with her twins and service dog on July 12. Allen, who was off-duty at the time, became angry that the dog was inside, the warrant states. Police say Allen followed the mother around the restaurant, then punched her in the face in the parking lot.

Surveillance video shows McDonald's employees trying to restrain their co-worker, police wrote in the warrant.

J.M. and Jan Owens, who operate the store on Bells Ferry Road, said they're cooperating with police.

"At our McDonald's restaurant, we respect and value our customers. Their safety and well-being is always a top priority," they said in a statement to The Associated Press.

"We strive to comply with all applicable laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act," they said. "It is our policy to make our restaurants accessible to all customers, including those with disabilities and special needs, whether or not they need the assistance of service animals."

A phone listing for Allen could not be located. McDonald's officials say that she is no longer employed by the Oak Brook, Ill.-based company.

[Associated Press; By JEFF MARTIN]

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