MARIETTA - Authorities say a former McDonald's manager accused of punching a mother inside a Marietta McDonald's is now in custody in North Carolina.

Cobb County sheriff's spokeswoman Nancy Bodiford told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Tiffany Denise Allen was taken into custody Monday in New Hanover, N.C.

Police say Jennifer Schwenker entered the McDonald's with her autistic children and service dog. Authorities say Allen, who was off-duty at the time, became irate the dog was inside and punched the mother in the face.

Allen is charged with simple battery, simple assault fear and disorderly conduct.

Bodiford said Cobb County authorities are working to have her returned to Georgia to face the charges.

Store operators J.M. and Jan Owens said the safety and well-being of their customers is always a top priority.