False accusation at work? Get legal advice!

Questioner

Dear, Last Wednesday I was falsely accused of theft at work. During my workday I was taken aside by the two owners and told that they had been told that I had stolen something and whether I could prove with a receipt whether that was not the case. If not, it would be the end of the story. Then I was put back to work. After a few hours I was so upset that I had another conversation with one of the owners and I indicated that I had not stolen anything. He then said that they should handle it this way to 'test' how I would react and based on this they could conclude whether I was guilty or not. He said that I was clearly not guilty now. I continued working for a few more hours. The next day at work I had another conversation in the morning with the same owner and my manager and it was again stated that the matter was closed, I was not found guilty. I worked that day and the day after. Unfortunately, I had to report sick for an indefinite period because of an impending burnout. I had been struggling privately for a while (which my manager was aware of) and at work it was very chaotic because of a renovation that was being tackled very messily. With this false accusation, it all became too much for me. I am seeing a therapist and he advised me to take a rest because otherwise things would go wrong. It is also good to mention that I had found a new job the week before and had already officially terminated my contract for this, which the owner had already agreed to. I then informed the owners and my manager that I unfortunately had to report sick for an indefinite period, that I was being treated for this and that I could be called up by a company doctor if necessary. The day after this sick leave, I received an email from the other owner of the company that I still had to prove my innocence of the theft and gave me two choices: either I would be fired on the spot and a report would be filed with the police. Or I would resign immediately. With an ultimatum that has now expired. What can I do with this? Thanks in advance! MVG

Lawyer

If you have not stolen anything, you should never agree to a settlement. Applying pressure during illness is prohibited. The employer must prove that you stole. You do not have to prove your innocence. Go to a specialized employment law attorney as soon as possible.