A Chuck E. Cheese employee in full mascot costume was arrested at a Tallahassee location after being accused of stealing a customer’s debit card, according to police.
Costumed Suspect Identified as 41-Year-Old Jermel Jones
The suspect, 41-year-old Jermel Jarreau Jones, was taken into custody on Wednesday while still dressed as the iconic mouse. Police said they approached him during work hours and he initially resisted arrest, forcing officers to physically restrain him.
“Chuck E, come with me Chuck E,” one officer reportedly said during the arrest.
Stolen Card Found in Mouse Costume
According to the arrest report, officers discovered the missing debit card in Jones’ pants pocket after removing the oversized Chuck E. Cheese head. The card had been reported stolen during a child’s birthday party on June 28. Police alleged that Jones used the card multiple times—at a smoke shop, a meat market, and a Whataburger.
Jones Denies Theft, Claims He Planned to Turn It In
Jones denied the accusations, telling police he had just found the card and was about to return it to the lost and found. He now faces felony charges including larceny of a debit card, identity theft, and fraudulent use of the card.
Customer Helped Crack the Case
The victim reportedly investigated the unauthorized charges herself. After tracking down surveillance footage from a meat market, she recognized Jones as a Chuck E. Cheese employee and alerted police. She later accompanied officers to the restaurant and agreed to press charges after identifying him.
Company Responds
In a statement to ABC News, a Chuck E. Cheese spokesperson said, “We have taken the appropriate action concerning the subject employee,” and directed further inquiries to the Tallahassee Police Department.
The arrest, which unfolded in front of children and families, has sparked widespread attention both online and in the local community. Stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.