Chuck E. Cheese Arrested? Viral Footage Sparks Shock—Here’s the Real Story

Parents and children at a Tallahassee Chuck E Cheese were left stunned when police officers marched in and hand-cuffed the beloved costumed mouse during a Saturday birthday rush. Newly released body-camera video shows 41-year-old Jermell Jarreau Jones—still wearing the oversized fuzzy head—escorted through the game room and out the front doors on July 23. Officers say Jones, the performer behind the Chuck E Cheese mascot, was wanted on multiple felony warrants tied to an investigation into credit-card theft and fraudulent use of ID. According to the arrest report, Tallahassee Police Department detectives linked Jones to several stolen cards used at stores across Leon County. When investigators learned he was working children’s parties in full costume, they coordinated with restaurant management to make the arrest between shows so kids would not be caught in the middle. “Chuck E.’s a little busy, ma’am,” an employee tells officers in the video moments before they reveal the handcuffs. The viral footage—released this week after multiple public-records requests—has already racked up millions of views on social media, sending the phrase “Chuck E Cheese arrested” soaring on search engines. In the clip, puzzled children can be heard asking, “Why are they taking Chuck E.?” as ticket machines whirl in the background. Jones faces five counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, grand theft, and possession of a forged driver’s license. He was booked into the Leon County Detention Facility and later released on a $15,000 bond, court records show. Chuck E Cheese Entertainment issued a statement stressing that entertainers are independent contractors who undergo background checks, adding, “The safety of our guests and employees remains our top priority.” The company says it has since reviewed its vendor screening policies. Tallahassee police encourage anyone who believes their card was compromised to call their Financial Crimes Unit. Jones’ next court appearance is scheduled for October 7. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges could follow if more victims come forward.