Permanent bans based solely on unverified accusations — especially years after the alleged conduct and following a long medical absence — undermine fairness and trust.
BEWARE OF PEETS
I was a long-time, respectful customer of Peet’s Coffee in Encinitas. During my visits, I consistently treated employees with courtesy and respect and regularly tipped staff.
For approximately two years, I did not visit this location due to serious, documented medical issues, including cancer treatment and heart conditions, all related to my service-connected disabilities as a Vietnam veteran.
On Saturday, December 14, 2025, upon returning to the Encinitas Peet’s Coffee after that absence, I was abruptly informed that I had been permanently banned. No explanation was given at the time. I had never previously been warned, verbally or in writing, of any alleged misconduct.
Corporate Response Received
After contacting Peet’s Coffee corporate customer service, my complaint was forwarded to district management. I received a response from: Gary Files District Leader, San Diego Peet’s Coffee Phone: 619-210-9027 (gfiles@peets.com) In his email, Mr. Files alleged that on “multiple occasions in the past,” employees witnessed me making “sexually explicit comments” about other customers and stated that this behavior made employees uncomfortable.
Formal Denial of Allegations
I unequivocally deny these allegations. At no time did I make sexually explicit comments toward customers, nor did I engage in behavior intended to make anyone uncomfortable. The conduct described did not occur. Most importantly:
I was never warned about any alleged behavior
I was never asked to stop any conduct
I was never issued a written or verbal notice
I was never provided an incident report or documentation
I was never informed of any ban until my sudden removal
No dates, times, witnesses, written complaints, or incident reports have been provided to substantiate these claims.
This matter raises serious concerns regarding:
Lack of due process
Absence of documentation
Permanent exclusion without warning
Reputational harm caused by unsupported allegations
Disparate treatment of a disabled veteran