After having a standard stay in the Courtyard by Marriott in San Diego for business, I noticed a $250.00 charge on my credit card. I thought it was the standard security charge and called the property to have it removed.
When I gave my name, I was told that the charge was for smoking in the room. I, however, do not smoke and told them so. They proceeded to tell me it was not just for smoking, but for smoking marijuana and that "marijuana stems" were found on the desk.
I was absolutely mortified. I told them they must have been confused, I did not have any marijuana nor did I smoke in my room (I always request non-smoking rooms but not applicable in CA as I believe that they all are non-smoking rooms.)
I was told that I couldn't even dispute the charges with them and needed to do it with my credit card company. I was furious. I asked what proof they had, and the girl I was speaking to said she personally went to the room and saw the "stems." I asked what her position was, General Manager? No, she was a mere Front Desk Associate. I do not belittle this job but I do not expect someone of that position to have the ability to decide that I am using illegal substances while traveling on business and also having the ability to charge me $250.00.
As I insisted on having some type of proof (photos, evidence) I realized then and asked, "Isn't it your standard practice to notify the police of something like this?" Her response. "We wouldn't have any proof to notify them."
I am contacting a lawyer and plan on disputing these charges. Not only for the financial loss I could endure, but also for the slanderous remarks that I was using drugs. This can jeopardize my job as I was there on business.
It is also quite slanderous implying that I either a.) traveled by plane with drugs and therefore I am a drug trafficker or b.) although it was my first time in the beautiful city of San Diego, I met some type of "drug connection."
I want everyone to be aware of this as it obviously could happen to anybody. It's a great way for the hotel or maybe the entire brand (Courtyard by Marriott) to make some additional revenue. I am also a devout Christian and find this accusation both horrific and almost funny (if only you knew the lifestyle I lead.)
Thank you for reading and Beware of this hotel!
Sara
Charlotte, North Carolina
U.S.A.
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