4. Pepper Spray Attack at Circle K (Bernalillo County, NM, June 28th, 2024)

A Circle K cashier was just doing her job when Michael, a customer, tried to steal a 30-pack of Bud Light and four Jack Daniel’s whiskey coolers. As he left, he turned and pepper sprayed the employee directly in the face to make his escape. The victim was left in agony, her face burning, and a witness quickly gave police a full description.

Key Moments:

Victim in Agony: The cashier was helped by bystanders and police, who started medical care immediately.
Suspect Flees: Michael ran across a field, but officers tracked him down quickly.
Caught & Denies Everything: When officers confronted Michael, he tried to play dumb, denied having pepper spray, and resisted arrest. Officers found the pepper spray canister, drugs, and a pipe on him.
Excuses: Michael claimed the cashier was racist and had hurt his daughter a week before, but video footage and witness statements proved otherwise.
Charges: Aggravated battery, shoplifting, possession of a controlled substance, tampering with evidence, and obstruction.

Quick Recap of the Other 5 Extreme Cases:

1. Chokes Store Owner (Lake County, FL)

A woman, angry about being refused beer, choked the store owner and ripped his shirt. She denied everything, ranted about her money, and fought officers once cuffed. She was charged with battery, resisting, petty theft, and more.

2. Angry Shopper Strikes (Jacksonville, FL)

A customer tried to scam a store for a refund, then fought staff at the door. She was belligerent with officers, refused to comply, and was charged with battery, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest.

3. Refund Refusal Tantrum (Palm Beach County, FL)

A woman at Walmart tried to return an item with no receipt, refused to leave, and argued with police. She was trespassed, then arrested for battery, trespassing, and resisting.

5. Airlines Showdown (Orlando, FL)

A couple denied a $90 refund at Spirit Airlines became violent. The husband attacked officers and put one in a headlock, claiming disability and police brutality. He was charged with attempted murder, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest.

6. Ranting Over Raw Bacon (Cape Coral, FL)

A man at Waffle House, furious over undercooked bacon, launched into a racist tirade, threatened staff, and tried to charge the counter. He resisted arrest, claimed victimhood, and was charged with simple assault, disorderly intoxication, and resisting.

What Happened When Police Arrived?

In every case, police had to de-escalate dangerous situations, protect employees, and deal with suspects who were often intoxicated, mentally unstable, or both.
Pepper spray, physical violence, and racist threats were all used against staff.
Most suspects resisted arrest, leading to extra charges.
Bodycam footage and witness testimony were key in securing convictions.

Conclusion

Retail work can be dangerous, especially when customers lose control. These six cases show the critical role police play in protecting workers—and how quickly a simple dispute can turn violent.