August 1, 2025

Tallahassee Police and Chuck E. Cheese Strengthen Community Safety

News Summary

In a recent event at Chuck E. Cheese, the Tallahassee Police Department collaborated with the popular children’s venue to promote community safety following a viral incident involving the arrest of a costumed employee. CEO David McKillips was present to reassure families, emphasizing their commitment to fostering a safe environment. This partnership aims to restore public trust after the unsettling arrest attracted significant media attention and concerns among patrons. The community event reassures families that together, the police and Chuck E. Cheese are dedicated to creating a secure atmosphere for children.

Tallahassee Police and Chuck E. Cheese Promote Community Safety Following Viral Arrest of Costumed Employee

The Tallahassee Police Department gathered at a local Chuck E. Cheese to promote community safety on August 5, following a recent viral incident involving the arrest of an employee clad in a Chuck E. Cheese mouse costume. This event aimed to reaffirm the police’s commitment to community engagement, particularly following an incident that unnerved families and patrons of the popular children’s entertainment venue.

During the event, David McKillips, the CEO of Chuck E. Cheese, participated actively by greeting law enforcement officers and engaging with community members. The partnership between the police and Chuck E. Cheese is seen as an essential step to restore public trust and a sense of safety in the wake of the troubling events surrounding the arrest.

Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell expressed appreciation for the collaboration, emphasizing that it not only enhances community safety but also contributes to maintaining a fun environment for children and families at Chuck E. Cheese. McKillips stated that the recent incident was unfortunate and inconsistent with the company’s values, and efforts are being made to reinstate positive sentiments among patrons.

The disturbing incident unfolded on July 23, when Jermell Jones was arrested on felony charges associated with the use of a stolen credit card. The arrest attracted attention after officers humorously addressed him while he was still dressed as the iconic mascot, saying, “Chuck E, come with me Chuck E,” which added a surreal dimension to the situation for onlookers and particularly for young children present at the scene.

Investigations led to the arrest after a customer, identified as Michelle Allen, reported discovering fraudulent charges linked to Jones’s employment at Chuck E. Cheese. The affidavit indicated that Jones had made over $100 in fraudulent purchases, and upon his arrest, he was found possessing the stolen credit card along with a small amount of marijuana. It was noted that Jones had a prior accusation of a similar offense six months earlier.

Witnesses reported significant confusion and concern from children during Jones’s arrest, prompting questions about the future of Chuck E. Cheese. One family on vacation from Central Florida recounted the distress of their children witnessing law enforcement’s actions. The incident escalated in notoriety, garnering substantial media attention and even reaching popular late-night television programs.

Despite intentions of a discreet approach, law enforcement had to cuff Jones for safety reasons after he resisted compliance during the arrest. He was subsequently booked on several charges, including suspicion of larceny, possession of another person’s identification without consent, and multiple instances of fraudulent credit card use. Following processing, Jones was released on a $6,500 bond.

In light of the incident, Chuck E. Cheese acknowledged the gravity of the situation and conveyed that appropriate measures were undertaken regarding the employee involved. The company’s response includes initiatives aimed at reassuring patrons about the establishment’s commitment to safety and family-friendly entertainment.

The recent community safety event signifies the continued efforts by the Tallahassee Police Department and Chuck E. Cheese to foster a secure and welcoming environment for families, particularly children who look forward to entertaining experiences. As both organizations move forward from the incident, community leaders hope to restore confidence and joy in the local gathering place.

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Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER

The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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