Kerry Lawrence, a former federal prosecutor and White Plains criminal defense lawyer, told WTSP that Morales could face criminal fraud charges if it is proven that she made money off of what looks like a hoax.
After a couple came forward with evidence that they had not stiffed Bridgewater, N.J. waitress Dayna Morales on her tip or left her an anti-gay note, the Gallop Asian Bistro restaurant has reported that Morales is not working at the restaurant, pending the completion of an investigation.
“Ms. Morales is currently not on our employee schedule while we are still working to complete our investigation,” the Gallop Asian Bistro restaurant posted on its Facebook page, New Jersey 101.5 reported.
Meanwhile, USA Today reported that acquaintances and colleagues have come forward to reveal that Morales, 22, has a history of lying. They said they were suspicious of Morales’ story about the check, since she had altered the truth in the past.
Morales once said she had shaved her head because she had brain cancer, and then changed her story to say that a friend had brain cancer. After Hurricane Sandy, she said a boat had gone through her family’s home, but when co-workers came by to check on her the house had suffered only minor damages. No boat was in sight.
“Every story she comes up with has a lie,” said Julie Howat, 23, of Pomona, N.Y.
“Any tragedy that happened, she had to be a part of it,” Howat said. “She needed sympathy and empathy.”
Morales received a flood of sympathy and monetary “tips” after she posted a picture on Facebook of a check with a slash mark through the tip line and a note that read, “I’m sorry but I cannot tip because I do not agree with your lifestyle and how you live your life.”
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