Economy

published : 2023-09-09

Florida Restaurant Confronts 'Dine-and-Dash' Customers with 'Popular' New Tactic

Owner Ken Brackins says the 'successful' tactic has helped collect pay for 11 out of the last 12 incidents

A photo of Ken Brackins, the owner of Rick's on the River, in front of his restaurant taken with a Nikon D850

A Florida restaurant owner has found a unique way to deal with the problem of 'dine-and-dashers' who leave without paying their bills.

Ken Brackins, owner of Rick's on the River, has come up with a successful strategy to combat this issue.

By posting security footage of the culprits online, Brackins not only identifies them but also enlists the help of the local community in tracking them down.

The tactic seems to be working wonders, as Brackins claims to have collected payment for 11 out of the last 12 incidents.

The restaurant's inexpensive nature makes it a prime target for dine-and-dashers, who try to run up a bill and leave without paying.

An image of a group of people enjoying a meal at Rick's on the River, captured with a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

However, Brackins' approach has become a deterrent, making potential offenders think twice before committing such acts.

The videos posted online not only serve to catch the perpetrators but also publicly shame them, making it less likely for them to repeat their behavior.

When confronted, the customers are usually willing to pay, although they may initially resist and try to make excuses.

One incident involved a woman in a Mercedes-Benz who even knocked over a pitcher in her attempt to escape without paying.

However, Brackins and his staff have managed to maintain their resolve and ensure that the necessary payment is made.

A picture of a security camera capturing footage of a dine-and-dash incident at Rick's on the River, snapped with a Sony Alpha a7 III

This tactic has become a viral sensation, with the restaurant successfully collecting payment in 11 out of the last 12 incidents.

Brackins acknowledges that dine-and-dashing is a common occurrence in the United States, but his strategy has proven effective in combating it.

Restaurant owners facing similar issues might consider adopting a similar approach to protect their businesses.

By publicly exposing dine-and-dash offenders, these owners can create a deterrent and mobilize the local community for support.

Overall, Ken Brackins' innovative tactic has proven to be a triumph in the battle against dine-and-dashers.