Tallahassee Police Arrest Chuck E. Cheese Mascot for Credit Card Fraud

Jermell Jones, a part-time Chuck E. Cheese employee dressed as the mascot, was arrested on July 23 in Tallahassee, Florida, for allegedly stealing a customer's credit card and using it fraudulently for over $100 in purchases. Bodycam footage capturing the arrest inside the restaurant shows police officers handcuffing Jones in full costume as children and parents watch in shock and distress, with some children crying out, "Chuck E, no!" Critics have questioned the police's decision to make the arrest publicly while Jones was still in costume, arguing it was traumatizing for the children present. Police defended their actions, stating they needed to detain the suspect immediately, despite protests from parents who suggested waiting until he was out of costume. Jones denied the charges, but evidence including surveillance footage and a receipt found on him linked him to the fraudulent activity. The arrest and accompanying videos have gone viral, highlighting the unusual and unsettling nature of the incident.