David Thorne Prank: Robert Trugabe Memo Sparks McDonalds Reaction

Begin forwarded message:From: Bronwyn Stubbs <bronwyn.stubbs@mcdonalds.com.au> Date: 14 October 2009 11:56:45 AM To: 372 Recipients Subject: Fabricated letterHi All,As most of you are aware, a fabricated letter (attached) appeared on a US blog about a week ago. I contacted the blog and had them post a confirmation that the letter is fabricated but despite this it went viral and is now circulating via email.A response was provided to media and customer service and we are currently have an alert on our corporate website which can be viewed here: mcdonalds.com.au/#/home/promo2Should you be contacted by any media representative in regards to the letter, the following text must be used: "The memo in circulation supposedly written by the Proprietor of Frewville McDonald's in South Australia is a complete fabrication. 'Robert Trugabe' is not a McDonald's Australia employee and never has been. The contents of the letter are also completely fabricated. McDonald’s practices the highest standards of consumer ethics and would never encourage employees to act in a way that undermines our core customer values."According to recent news articles and other information we have been provided, the fabricated letter was created by an Adelaide man named David Thorne. At no time should any member of McDonald's mention the name David Thorne to any media representative. We have spoken to police and are in the process of filing charges against Thorne. We are also speaking with legal regarding a possible law suit. At no time should any member of McDonald's contact Mr Thorne or engage in any correspondence with him. Should Mr Thorne contact you in any way please let me know immediately or forward any emails.Please inform all those who should be made aware.Cheers, BronBronwyn Stubbs Corporate Communications Manager McDonald's Australia