North Carolina Chick-fil-A Employee Returns Nearly $10,000 Found in Restroom

Jaydon Cintron, an 18-year-old employee at a Chick-fil-A franchise in Kinston, North Carolina, is being hailed for his integrity after returning nearly $10,000 in cash he discovered while on a break.

The incident occurred on April 3, 2026, observed as Good Friday. Cintron entered the men’s restroom during his shift and found two white envelopes resting on the floor adjacent to a toilet.

Upon inspection, the teenager found that one envelope was labeled First Citizens Bank and contained approximately $5,000. The second envelope, bearing a Truist Bank label, held $4,333 in cash.

Rather than keeping the funds, Cintron immediately reported the discovery to the restaurant’s human resources department. He stated that his primary concern was ensuring the money reached its rightful owner.

The individual who lost the money visited the restaurant the following day to claim the envelopes. The owner, whose identity has not been released, offered Cintron a $500 reward as a gratitude gesture.

Reports indicate that Cintron initially declined the reward multiple times. He reportedly told the man that his actions were motivated by his personal faith and a desire to do what was right.

After the owner of the cash insisted, Cintron eventually accepted the $500. The story has since gained significant traction online, drawing praise from local officials and national media outlets.

John McPhaul, the owner-operator of the Kinston Chick-fil-A, commended Cintron’s character. McPhaul noted that true leadership and integrity involve doing the correct thing even when there is no observation by others.

Kinston Police Chief Keith Goyette also weighed in on the event. Goyette remarked that many individuals might have opted to take the money, highlighting Cintron’s decision as an exceptional display of honesty.

This incident has been cited as a significant example of individual character. The story has been featured by various organizations, including WITN and the New York Post, highlighting positive civic behavior within the community.