Teen Store Employee Gives Police Officer a Cookie for Free, Gets Suspended for It

A teenage Texan was about to learn a harsh life lesson that no good deed goes unpunished. But maybe those doing the punishing weren't in for an easy ride either.

As an Eagle Scout, deep respect for authority is ingrained into Zack Randolph's psyche -- a trait usually praised by society, but in 2017 was condemned.

According to the then-18-year-old Zack himself, this situation was unique. This peculiarity was because, generally, those around him supported his regard for those in positions of power.

FROM THE HEART

While working at Great American Cookies at Katy Mills Mall, a police officer approached. Out of the kindness of his heart, the teen chose to pay for the officer's cookie himself. Zack recollected:

“He’s just a really nice guy, and on top of that, he has a badge. That’s enough for me to buy him something. That’s the least I can do.”

While the officer and the young man were in all likelihood feeling great at that very moment, not everyone was too impressed with the Good Samaritan.

NOT IMPRESSED

A couple in the line became aggressive, expressing their disapproval, demanding that they be given a free cookie as well. However, Zack refused, recalling:

"Then they asked them if I was going to buy them a cookie, and I told them both 'No. They don't have a badge. I'm sorry.'"

They began accusing the teenager of racist behavior and threatening to hurt him physically. Luckily co-workers were able to diffuse the situation.

A BEWILDERING DECISION

By all accounts, this young man was a model and hardworking citizen, just having been offered a raise before the altercation with the problematic customers occurred.

However, after the incident, the establishment chose to suspend Zack for a week, but thanks to the power of social media, this decision did not go down well.

THE PUBLIC FIGHTS BACK

The teenager's mother took to Facebook, revealing the story to her fellow online friends, leading to a backlash.

Ultimately, the issue went viral and led to the Great American Cookies releasing an apology and reversing the initial suspension.

UNDER POLICE PROTECTION

In another more positive Facebook post, the Katy Police Department published a snapshot of the young man in question standing at the station with individuals from the police force. It read:

"It was our pleasure to finally meet the young man from Great American Cookies, who did a selfless deed despite what others may have thought."

They thanked Zack for going the extra mile to show his appreciation for law enforcement. This sentiment gathered tons of positive responses, from 18,000 emojis, 372 shares, and 102 comments.

AN ONLINE OVATION

There was no negative comment in sight, with most individuals praising Zack for his actions and thanking the police force for acknowledging his deed. One individual penned:

"The world needs more young men like Zachary! I would like to see the Katy City Council recognize him with a special day in his honor. Thanks to Katy PD for recognizing him."

Many people believed that the customers in question should be taken to task. A commenter recommended someone should ban them from Great American Cookies for a month.

A PATRON GONE WILD

It is no doubt upsetting how the said individuals reacted to Zack. But, we would all be lying to ourselves if we said that we have never heard of or seen individuals treating those in customer service poorly.

A pregnant woman, Bryanna, working at a McDonalds' branch, was just one of these people. A customer threw a cup at her through the drive-thru window, leaving her drenched in soda.

ESTABLISHING CHANGE

Luckily for her, there was an irate onlooker, determined to put a smile on Bryanna's face. Taking to Facebook, she set up a fundraiser and registry for the hardworking mom.

She managed to raise much more than she originally intended, leaving Bryanna with more money and hopefully a renewed faith in humanity.

From waitresses, cashiers, and crew work members -- whether it's a slightly heavier tip or a friendly conversation, let's remind them that we care and that they matter.