Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Inventory Numbers Off: Terminated With Good Reference?

[D1520]

About 9 years ago I worked for a very small gift shop in Ohio along with two other employees. On one of my days off, I received a call from my boss who explained to me that she was at the shop doing inventory, and that the numbers were off. She never blamed me for this, never accused me of theft, and never told me I was suspected of theft. However, she did say that she would have to let me go because she couldn't afford to keep me on staff any longer, but that she would be willing to provide a good reference should I need one in the future. She didn't sound angry, and never asked if I or anyone I worked with every took anything. I was never investigated, charged, or prosecuted for theft, nor was I ever formally or informally accused of it. Under the circumstances, I always felt like my boss suspected me of stealing, but could never accuse me of it because she had no proof (I wasn't stealing). I now am applying for a job that will include a very thorough employment background check. I have to list every employer I have ever had since high school (about 10 years of employment history), and the reason I left. Each previous employer will definitely be called. I actually had a friend of mine call the shop about a year ago to do a reference check on me. The owner's brother answered the phone and said that he thought he remembered me, but that they didn't keep employee records like that. He said if he came up with anything he'd call back, but never did. I have no problem being open and honest about why I got fired, but I just don't know what to say or how to word it based on what happened. I can't say that I was fired for theft or suspicion of theft because that would be a lie -my boss never said that. What I'm thinking about saying is that I was terminated due to a downturn in business or something of the like. Any suggestions as to how I might word the reason for my separation with the company would be much appreciated.

 

[thelawjournal]

Your question falls into an are outside of retail theft. Where somone here might have your answer you must keep in mind our specialty here is retail theft. Your issue falls under labor law or job search.