Florida Man in Chuck E Cheese Costume Arrested for Credit Card Fraud

Jermell Jarreau Jones, a 41-year-old man dressed as the Chuck E. Cheese mascot, was arrested at a Tallahassee, Florida restaurant on multiple felony charges related to credit card fraud, including theft of a credit card, criminal use of personal identification information, and fraudulent use of a credit card more than twice within six months. The arrest occurred during a child's birthday party, with officers taking Jones into custody while he was still in full costume, sparking criticism from some parents and observers who felt the timing was traumatizing for children. Police confirmed the authenticity of widely circulated photos and videos showing Jones being led out of the restaurant, with the mascot head removed and placed on a police car. Evidence presented by a witness and surveillance footage linked Jones to fraudulent purchases, including using a debit card last employed during a birthday party at the restaurant. Jones posted a $1,000 bond after booking, and the arrest is part of a longer investigation into his criminal activities. The incident has raised questions about employee screening at Chuck E. Cheese and highlighted concerns about credit card fraud in family-oriented settings.