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We believe our rights have been completely violated by Menards. For over 15 years we have rehabbed properties, built spec homes, and bought everything from building and landscaping materials, cleaning products to snacks at this store. At times spending more time there then at home.

My husband has a construction/ remodeling business and has/had an account at Menards for several years. In Nov. 2012 we stopped to get a few things at our local Menards where my husband purchases a mislabeled roll of electrical conduit, held together with plastic ties with no other label or info on it.

As we proceeded to leave the store, after paying for the merchandise, my husband was ordered back into the store and ordered to follow a Menards employee into a room, who then accuses him of switching a tag. I followed my husband into the room. I knew that my husband would never have done or be *** enough to do anything like that. After listening to the employeeโ€™s insults and lies against my husband, I question his level of education. At which point he informed us he had a 4 year degree in criminal justice and was more intelligent than the two of us combined.

We were hoping that the police would show up quickly, so we could explain the situation. We knew that the surveillance video would prove the truth. Before we got the chance to explain, my husband was handcuffed, his pockets were searched and then I was told to put my hands behind my back and I was also handcuffed, so tightly in fact, that afterwards, I had bruises around my wrists,.

While my husband was repeatedly interrogated for close to 2 hours, I was being questioned, as well, and then finally un-handcuffed. I waited outside of the room, surrounded by police and in view of Menards customers that were checking out at the registers. Iโ€™ve never been so totally embarrassed, humiliated and in disbelief that this was happening, as we were being treated like complete criminals. We are both 50 years old, have no prior criminal history, not even outstanding parking tickets. We were picking up some supplies for our sonโ€™s project, which my husband was helping him with and household items for ourselves.

We were eventually released after inconclusive evidence. From the video they told us it seemed that my husband could have possibly done it. As a result of someoneโ€™s opinion or suspicion (that my husband looked as if he could have switched the tag), we were forced to sign a blank form agreeing not to set foot into a Menards. After the treatment we received from Menards, a company we completely trusted, recommended and gave so much business to, over the years, no such form will be needed to keep us out of their stores forever. We were told by the police if we refused to sign this form, they would need to take us to the police station. Reluctantly we both signed an unfilled form as we were directed to do, to not waste any more time and to end the nightmare. We did not know why we would be forced to sign a form or go to the police station, if we were not proven guilty, or charged with any crime.

After we drove home and some of the shock wore off, we reviewed what had just happened. Both of us thought the security person was acting overly excited and unprofessional when he stopped and proceeded to accuse my husband. He also repeatedly stated that he was more than a 100% sure that my husband did it. Since we knew my husband did not put the tag on the conduit, we knew they could not have seen him actually doing so on the surveillance video.

It had also occurred to us: how and why would this security guy know that the price or ID code on the tag was incorrect? He knew this even before he physically looked at the item and the tag? How did he know it did not match the product since the item had no other tag or label on it, other than a code? He knew the exact price difference of two misc. items in the store, instantly. Are Menards surveillance cameras that powerful that they can read numbers on a product and identify the product completely from a distance, an item that had no other description other than a code? He also knew that those types of tags were never used in their store: a plastic covered, handwritten, bright orange tag with a large paperclip that was attached to the plastic tie.

We were sure that this whole mess could be resolved if we contacted Menards. We thought we would explain what had happened to us their store. We wanted them to go over their previous surveillance videos which may have proven that someone else placed the item there with the tag already on it or who had changed it.

After trying to locate a phone number or specific contact information for Menards on the internet, we found out the only way to contact them would be through their website or by fax, which we did. We learned that employees are not allowed to give out any other contact info either. We waited days for a response, yet did not receive one to either contact. We were a bit surprised, to say the least, that such a huge chain, that we gave thousands of dollars of business to over the years did not even acknowledge our complaint. We then sent the same complaint letter by registered mail and addressed it directly to Mr. Menards himself. We received no response; instead almost one month later we received a restitution settlement demand for $150 for theft in their store. This letter warned us if we did not pay this fine we could be prosecuted. At this point we felt violated all over again.

We questioned how something like this can happen in a civilized, free country to innocent people. There was neither proof nor evidence of a crime, yet we were treated like total criminals, based on a Menardโ€™s security guyโ€™s suspicion that my husband could have done it. Perhaps in the video, as he was comparing the different conduit, it could have looked as if he could have changed the tag (only a guess) since we did not get to see the surveillance tape.

In addition I was not even in the vicinity where the item was located in the store, nor did I touch the item or threaten anyone, yet I was handcuffed, interrogated, accused and humiliated in public and in addition we were charged a fine for stolen goods that were never stolen. We had paid for all merchandise as it was labeled and have the receipt to prove it.

My husband finally spoke to a human being at the Menards main security department, who was only listed as a Civil Restitution Coordinator in the payment demand letter. She did not want to disclose her name even though her department was accusing my husband of theft. He requested information from her about the item that was supposedly concealed and stolen. She could not give him any information of what the report said he had stolen from their store or any proof they had, of a crime being committed. She told him if he wanted more information he would need to go through an attorney who would then be able to get more information. We asked ourselves how they could legally have the right to demand any money? What if my husband represented himself? Doesnโ€™t everyone have the right to know what they are being accused and charged for?

My husband tried explaining the situation over the phone, because for some odd reason Menards never received our complaint through their website email, by fax, or by any registered letter (that she knew of). Surprisingly when my husband asked if she would be interested in finally reading it. She agreed to have him fax it to her, directly. For some reason, the fax, again, did not go through on the first try? On the second try she finally confirmed she had received the original email and promised to call my husband back, after going over it. Since she did not follow through on her promise, my husband called again. This time her response was for him to go through an attorney. Instead we received another copy of the demand letter for the $150. We are so disgusted with how weโ€™ve been treated and how unethical Menards and its people are.

Doing some research: we found out that Menards has an F rating with the BBB. They also have many disgruntled customers on many consumer complaint sites. However, we also know that justice does not always prevail, as is often proven on the news. We are debating whether to take legal action which would mean cost for us and this nightmare to continue. We do, however, believe we have plenty of evidence against Menards and their employees and this type of unethical behavior and injustice should not happen to innocent people and go unpunished.

If anyone has opinions on what they would do or any ideas on how to approach this matter further, please let us know? It has been months since this incident happened and it still wakes me up at night and we cannot stop thinking about it. We are both in total disbelief of how easy it is to be accused and almost jailed based on no real evidence or proof of a crime. Itโ€™s very difficult to just let this matter go, since it is so wrong on so many levels.

One small detail: my husband at age 50 has let his hair grow out, which may have been a contributing factor of perhaps being profiled as a potential criminal by security. He is unfortunately still hanging on to this look, for now.

Location: Downers Grove, Illinois

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Amrom Zes

You guys got caught so just take it and stop crying because you are lucky they didn't send you to jail. It sounds like you guys have some type of addiction.

They wouldn't do all of what you say if you didn't do it.

Now you think you gonna get some money for a law suit. Be lucky you a## isn't setting in the slammer!

Guest

Menards thinks they are untouchable. Sue them give them a lesson .

Maybe then they will see the light .

I will be thinking of you when I file my lawsuit. A

Guest

Mr. Menard's does exist.

He is the richest man in Wisconsin and is a billinaire.

Go to Forbes 400 billinoiares and see yourself.

Guest

I have been profiled as well at Menards. I am mobility impaired and have a service dog.

I constantly am closely followed by their employees and get the "overly helpful" approach from them. I've been stopped more than once for a receipt check (I've never seen them stop anyone else at this store) and today was the last straw. I went in merely to get a rebate slip for an item I purchased the other day, and also chose to use the restroom. I picked up a bag of candy on the way and then chose not to get it after all and set it down.

On my way out, I was stopped by one guy at the door, then another guy said he needed to talk to me and ushered me into a plain white cinder block room. They demanded to see inside my purse, I asked them why, and when they asked if I had the candy in there I told them no, I had chosen not to purchase it and put it on the shelf. A third guy came in and said this is what she had with a bag of candy, the first guy said they wanted 200 dollars in 14 days or they would call the police and that I could leave if I signed that form and one agreeing not to come in Menards again. I didn't take anything, I did sign the forms because they wouldn't let me leave otherwise, and I was scared.

I've never been in this situation before and know I cant come up with 200 dollars. I have no problem not going into their store anymore, I don't care for their idea of customer service.

Guest

This same thing just happened to my husband over a 59 cent piece of wooden dowel he honestly forgot to put on the belt. We have spent over ten thousand dollars at Menards over the past two years (new roof and windows).

Total embarrassment and you couldn't pay us to step foot in the place again. We have seven adult kids who will never be shopping there again either.

Guest

I know someone who had the same kind of treatment at the store in elgin il. Shame on menards!!!! I think long and hard before I shop there again!

Guest

I think you should take this to court. I dont like menards and believe they could so something so wrong as this.

the employees are rude and dont know what they are doing half the time. I say go for it and fight for what is right. Menards has no right to treat people like this.

This really has me upset and I dont even know you.

Guest

I have no idea where you live, or where this took place;

but you have been injured. You need to find a good lawyer,

and file suit against Menard's and the Police agency that

put you in handcuffs. If I knew where you lived, et cetera,

I'd help you find a lawyer. But, you need a TORT attorney,

and possibly a civil rights attorney. It's very possible that

a very good consumer rights attorney will take your case with

no money up front. Strictly on contingency. You should get started on this, right away. STRIKE BACK. You need justice.

Buzzy1950 :(

Guest

Yet another outstanding reason to never darken the doors at menards! there is something wrong with this place of business, Not only do they treat customers with ill respect they sell inferior products and won't stand behind them. When will we learn to stop patronizing this place?

Guest

This just happened to me and I am furious. It was a complete mistake which I was never given the chance to correct.

Instead I was lied to by the person who kept telling me everything was fine and he understood he just had to fill out paperwork to document what happened and charged me $200.00 . I was so embarrassed.

Menards can band me from their stores, I will not set foot in them again, I would like to know, I am looking at turning this over to the States Attorney's Office. :(

Guest

This just happened to me and I am furious. It was a complete mistake which I was never given the chance to correct.

Instead I was lied to by the person who kept telling me everything was fine and he understood he just had to fill out paperwork to document what happened. Had me sign a form I don't remember getting a copy of. I was so embarrassed. Menards can ban me from their stores, I will not set foot in them again, they don't have to worry.

If there are others in Minnesota, I would like to know, I am looking at turning this over to the States Attorney's Office.

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-707467

The exact thing happened to me @ a Menard's store in MN & it was I stigated bythem telling me I couldn't have my Epilepsy Service Dog in the store bcz they sell food. I paid for my items & as I was leaving they told me I opened a pkg.

I told them it was a pkg that was already open & besides it had 2 huge zip ties on it. They said they had it on there security camera & I said let's go look @ it together so I can prove to you your lying. They refused to show it. I told them it was there retaliation for harassing me for my SVC dog.

They said the Menard's store policy over ruled the federal law, but are now denying they said that.

They put a "No Trespassing" order in my bag while I was having a seizure after all the stress of the incident. Now they refuse to release the video tape.

Guest

Same thing happened to my son. he was strip searched and nothing was found. He signed the form and the the BMV revoked blocked his licsense because he can't pay.

Guest

If you can post some sort of email contact (even make a new one through yahoo or whatever for this one instance and post it) I will tell you something that will help you greatly. But I will lose my job if I say anything on here.

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-638101

sundowninglater@***.com

same situation

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-638101

How do I post an email to you personally. I don't think it will let you put an email address in one on these responses.

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-638101

I know the email looks weird but I'm actual person had the same nightmare to Menards and then I'm going through a nightmare they said

fuctfone@***.com

My name is David,I appreciate any help

Guest

YOU SHOULD HAVE NEVER SIGNED ANYTHING! THE THING THEY MAKE YOU SIGN IS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT THAT YOU STOLE FROM MENARDS you are then fined and banned from all Menards stores.

This has happened to several people, who never stole from Menards. Menards is insane about theft. Employees have their lunch boxes checked before they can leave the store. The security is also contracted out to avoid any questionable acts by them.

Legally you will find it a very hard road because you admitted to guilt.

The police officer was going to arrest other wise, which would have been better but more annoying. Then you would have a chance in court.

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-631355

Yes, you should never have signed anything, but sometimes

inexperinced people can get overwhelmed. But, one way or the

other, you were EXTORTED. THAT'S EXTORTION. Nothing less!!

EXTORTION is ILLEGAL AS ***. BAD.

YOU NEED TO GET ON THE BALL, HAVE SOME GUTS, AND STRIKE

BACK.

STRIKE BACK !!!!! :eek

Guest
reply icon Replying to comment of Guest-631355

I refused to sign and they called the police, I was handcuffed and charged with Class A Retail Theft midemeanor. The AG office offered me a diversion class to attend for 8 hours and pay $100 and then I could expunge my record and it would go away.

I wasn't going to pay Menard's when I wasn't a thief.

Now it looks like they are charging me through civil law, but I didn't sign that form.

good thing my sister is a lawyer. otherwise who could fight this?

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