NEED TO KNOW
- Chuck E. Cheese was arrested mid-shift, delighting some kids who thought it was an immersive show
- Police say the man inside the suit stole a customer’s credit card and went on a brief spending spree
- CEC Entertainment insists Chuck himself remains innocent and deeply committed to birthday parties
TALLAHASSEE, FL — A Chuck E. Cheese birthday party turned unexpectedly educational when the restaurant’s beloved rodent mascot was handcuffed in front of dozens of children. The kids clapped, thinking it was a new type of birthday package called “Crime Scene Deluxe.”
According to police, the man inside the suit, Jermell Jones, used a stolen credit card to make personal purchases after a family party in June. Officers located him while he was checking stamps at the front entrance, then learned he had just changed into the full mascot costume.
Rather than wait, officers moved in. “Chuck E., come with me,” one of them reportedly said as they cuffed the mouse in front of a horrified child holding a slice of pizza. Guests were unsure whether to cry or tip.
Parents described the arrest as “alarming, yet oddly well choreographed.” One mother asked if the mugshot could be printed on souvenir cups. CEC Entertainment stated the character of Chuck E. remains untarnished and encourages safe, law-abiding celebrations.
Jones now faces three felonies. Meanwhile, several kids left the party aspiring to become either FBI agents or pizza rats. No middle ground.
Quote of the moment
If the mouse starts singing about bail reform, we’re pulling the plug
Officer Alicia Hill, Tallahassee PD
