‘Chuck E. Cheese’ is ‘a little bit busy’ as police accuse costumed rodent of credit card theft
Bodycam footage released Friday shows Florida police arresting a Chuck E. Cheese performer—still in full costume—prompting confusion and concern among children and parents.
The incident occurred on July 23 at a Chuck E. Cheese in Tallahassee, where officers approached the costumed employee, later identified as 41-year-old Jermel Jones, as he entertained families near arcade games.
“Chuck E.’s a little bit busy, ma’am,” Officer Jarrett Cruz told a nearby adult before instructing the performer, “Chuck E., come with me.”
Officers briefly struggled to detain Jones, clad in the restaurant’s iconic mouse suit, near the “Cars” and “SpongeBob SquarePants” games. He was accused of stealing and using a customer’s credit card.
“Chuck E., stop resisting,” Cruz can be heard saying on the video. “You’re being detained… Let it go. Do not cause a scene here, sir.”
As police led the costumed character out of the restaurant, a parent attempted to shield her child from the arrest. “We got to do our job, ma’am,” Cruz responded. “Not my call.”
At least one child’s voice can be heard asking, “What are you doing?”
One concerned adult questioned the officers: “Would y’all put Mickey Mouse in handcuffs?”
The officer replied, “Have a good night,” and walked away.
Jones was placed in a patrol car, where officers helped remove his costume—including the mouse head, furry gloves, oversized shoes, and suspenders.
He has denied any wrongdoing.
About Post Author
