A Sainsbury's employee, Jorge Costa, 57, was fired after he intervened during an incident involving two suspected shoplifters at a store in Hertford. Costa had worked at the supermarket for two years, managing the fruit and vegetable section, and was described as a dedicated worker. On July 1, he said he heard a woman screaming for help and turned to see a security guard struggling to stop the shoplifters. Costa claimed he tried to stop them from taking goods, telling them he would let them go if they left the items behind. He admitted to punching one of the shoplifters in what he called self-defense. The shoplifters eventually left the store after discarding the items they had taken. Despite being treated as a hero by some colleagues, particularly women, Costa was suspended and later dismissed on July 29. Sainsbury's stated that he had broken company policy, which prohibits floor staff from intervening in shoplifting incidents. The company also claimed he committed gross misconduct, arguing that his actions could have endangered others. Costa was informed in a letter that he had put himself and others at risk. Bodycam footage of the incident was shown to him during disciplinary proceedings, but he claimed the video only captured the second half of the event, omitting any indication he had been asked for help. He also disputed claims that a colleague had to restrain him or that a shoplifter accused the security guard of hurting them. Costa has since struggled to find a new job and described feeling depressed. He expressed disappointment with his dismissal, noting that he had never been late or missed a day of work. Local residents have rallied behind him, with one beauty therapist, Laura Cook, starting a petition to have him reinstated. Cook said Costa loved his job and that his firing was unjust. She argued that the company should consider the broader impact of shoplifting on the community and the common-sense approach of stopping theft. A Sainsbury's spokesperson emphasized the challenges employees face daily with theft, aggression, and violence, stating that the safety of staff and customers is their top priority. The company said it continues to invest in security and works with the police to address these issues. A petition has been launched to support Costa's reinstatement.