Tennessee Wendy’s manager arrested for tying neurodivergent employee to grill

A Wendy’s restaurant manager in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has been arrested after admitting to tying a neurodivergent co-worker to a kitchen grill. Michiko Burton, 19, faces charges of simple assault and false imprisonment, which can carry a penalty of up to one year in jail. The incident occurred when Burton allegedly wrapped garbage bags around the employee's leg and secured him to the grill as part of a purported TikTok stunt. Initially, no arrest was made as the employee was not injured, but a video recorded by a colleague prompted further investigation by local police. The Murfreesboro Police Department stated that the incident was referred to Adult Protective Services. Following the investigation, warrants were issued for Burton's arrest. Wendy’s area management expressed outrage over the incident, stating that Burton is no longer employed with the company. A colleague who recorded the video questioned the validity of Burton's claims regarding a TikTok trend, stating, "If there was a TikTok trend, then where’s the TikTok?" He emphasized the importance of supporting the affected employee, stating, "They deserve justice." According to the Neurodiversity Directory, approximately 20 percent of the global population is neurodivergent, which includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia.