First I would like to apologize to the citizens of Panola County, my co-workers and the entire Zaxby’s family. I would also like to apologize, again, to the young lady that was affected by my actions. I want you to know that I am truly sorry.

I want those reading to know that in no way is this meant to try and make somebody look bad or for me to make excuses for my actions.

I admit that I was truly out of line and acted outside of my character. As everyone knows I am paying the consequences.

On the night that the incident took place, I felt that I wasn’t being treated fairly as a customer and of course I got upset. I requested a manager and told him how I felt I was being treated and he later revealed he thought the young lady and I were playing.

I began to leave the store and the manager stopped me and said that he was sorry then offered to accommodate me but I told him “no thanks” that I was just going to leave. I truly believe that the manager thought just as he said.

Also remember that this is a very political season and I think things were blown way out of proportion. Then the mention of a discount got thrown in and although it was discussed, it was never an issue with me. I think that politics played the biggest role in the incident.

Again, I apologize for acting out of character and pray that something good will come from this incident.

Sincerely,

Darius Smith

Former Deputy

Panola County