Saturday, August 1, 2020

Walmart Crime Report July 2020



Walmart had another eight shootings in July, which is about as good as it has gotten for several year. One of those was fatal and another was an officer involved shooting which led injured the suspect and led to the arrest of the officer, a week and a half later. There was another officer involved shooting at a different store in Michigan, where a customer stabbed a man in an argument over wearing a mask, and the officer located him after leaving the store, and when he approached the officer with a knife the officer shot and killed him. Walmart didn't have any fatal arguments over masks but they had plenty of non-fatal ones and more gun related crimes, related to masks or not.

There were close to, if not more than a dozen other gun related crimes, including several argument, one over a mask, leading to guns being drawn, several robberies, and more stolen guns, which seems far more common at Walmart than anywhere else. In addition to the fatal shooting, there was another body found at Walmart, and a third person that was killed after seeking shelter under a semi, which drove over him. This is the lowest number of deaths reported at Walmart in years. This includes an arrest on an armed robbery that took place two months ago, but wasn't reported previously. There's no doubt that many minor crimes hardly get any media coverage; but when they ignore armed robberies, of customers until they catch the robber it indicates they might be ignoring much more serious crimes as well, and these reports can be less complete than previously suspected.

There were at least two incidents being reviewed for use of excessive force by police. One in Texas, where they had multiple officers and the suspect was on the ground with his hands under his body when an officer began punching him; no conclusions have been drawn on this. Another one was a black man who test drove a pedal bike, before paying for it; Walmart staff thought he was acting suspiciously and called the police. By the time they arrived he had paid for it and had his receipt, but the police arrested him anyway, claiming he was resisting, and tasered and hog tied him. This led to massive protests, and some people wondering if they could get attacked by police, even if they pay for their merchandise at Walmart.

Walmart had another brawl in Tennessee with as many as ten people involved punching and throwing merchandise; hardly a month goes by without that happening. Walmart also had several more racial assaults or threats.

Walmart's efforts to cut down in the need to give change as a result of a coin shortage caused by COVID-19 led one Massachusetts store to keep the change without asking, ringing it up as a donation. If the customer hadn't checked her receipt she wouldn't even have noticed; when she did she was outraged, and saved the receipt to show the media.

Walmart claims they're declining to disclose positive COVID-19 cases for privacy concerns; but this often includes not telling health officials, and they don't attempt to disclose infections while withholding names. They've had several cases in the past month, and over a dozen since the pandemic began where the only reason the public found out there were outbreaks at their stores was because employees or health officials disclosed it despite Walmart's attempts to keep it secret. In one case, in Wisc., they ordered an employee to return to work even though he tested positive at a distribution center. Some co-workers initially assumed that he must have tested negative.

Despite this some media outlets are trying to give Walmart credit for taking the lead challenging the virus, because they eventually required masks, without enforcing it in many cases, when governors refused to do so. Few people seem to be discussing the fact that a large corporation with a horrendous reputation is making major decisions about health care without adequate input from the people or medical community. Their primary objective is profit and routinely put the best interests of the public, including workers and customers, behind that, despite their bad public relations statements.

There were over a dozen high profile arguments and probably hundreds of lower profile arguments over the mask mandate, and differing views about the virus. This includes many threats to spit or cough on people or products as well as actually doing it, brawls, viral videos and outrageous behavior by both supporters and opponents of masks.

In addition to the man that was run over by a semi, there were at least five major crashes, chases and a shopper who refused to wear a mask that hit a cop, at a low speed, while trying to leave. There were also a couple vehicles that caught fire, one spreading to nearby cars; and at least four more fires in the store, including three arson.



Walmart also had at least one stabbing and a couple more threats to stab or attempts. There was a woman arrested for impersonating an officer, a city employee fired for making racists remarks at Walmart, several more fights and a couple more people that were tasered by police. There were several more sexual assaults or upskirting incidents and a story about a couple wearing Nazi face masks that went viral.

One employee was arrested for stealing from Walmart so she could "pay for prom and graduation;" another employee also did so because she was going through a "difficult time." This is a semi-routine practice where full time workers can't afford basic fundamentals of life and are outraged at the rigged economy with oligarchs like Walmart suppressing wages and squeezing everyone they can while billionaires aren't held accountable for massive amounts of white collar crime! There should be no doubt that income inequality and oppressing workers rights is a major contributing cause of petty crime, which occasionally escalates to something more serious. Machiavelli recommended that those in power keep the citizens poor to make it easier to control them, which is exactly what Wall Street oligarchs including Walmart do.

Walmart had two more recalls this month, one of salads that made more than 600 people sick; and another of potentially toxic hand sanitizers, at a time when they're encouraging people to use them obsessively, due to the pandemic. In addition to their problems with racist customers they also have their own racist employees, including one fired for saying "You’re in America, learn English," and another that told a Native American that he "looked 'like the type of person who drinks.'"

Walmart and the other leading retailers are all bottling their own milk, wiping out the few remaining independent milk producers, leading to an obvious oligarchy system, even if traditional media never refers to it that way. Since there's little or no regulations to preserve a free market, or protect worker and consumers rights, it may be a matter of time before something goes wrong, possibly safety problems that could lead to more recalls of unsafe milk. Other oligarchy tactics they practice include additional exchanges of top management often with other oligarchs they're supposed to compete with and increased control of the health care industry.

Supposedly something spooky happened at Walmart when "dozens of street lamps seem to be flashing rapidly at once," which went viral on social media, although there weren't any corroborating witnesses that I know of.

Another woman discovered a rattlesnake in the motorized cart she was riding, and couldn't move, out of fear or a handicap until the police arrived.

If you buy condoms, do you want to ask a Walmart worker to unlock them for you, possibly while other customers are listening in on you? While "Pokin' around" one reporter found a Walmart store that keeps them locked up!



Strange things happen at Walmart!





In 2006 Wake Up Walmart did a study, "Is Walmart Safe?" based on incidents in 2004, (PDF) about crime at Walmart which showed that it increased when Walmarts opened up and that crime was higher at Walmart than at other retailers. Since then Walmart Shootings began compiling a list of gun related incidents at Walmart and demonstrated that they have a large number of them, including on average more than one shooting per week somewhere in the country; now after counting them for several years that average is over two per week. In January of 2014 another study, "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" provided additional statistical research indicating that Walmart might be contributing to higher crime rates or at least a slowing of the decline in crime. The study found that. “on average, communities with Walmarts had 17 more property crimes and two more violent crimes per 10,000 people than those communities without Walmarts.” I reviewed this more in Walmart’s crime problem, Rolling Back Safety more than prices? where I explained that although this study is helpful they could have done better with additional data that is available and I reviewed some of that. I also added my own review about why I think that Walmart policies have been contributing to higher crime in a previous blog, Walmart high crime rate continues un-investigaterd and have provided additional information under the author tag Walmart Crime Watch.

Stacy Mitchell has also compiled a list of other studies about Walmart and how they impact society, Key Studies on Big-Box Retail & Independent Business. To the best of my knowledge Walmart has done as little as they seem to get away with, often relying on rhetoric that isn't backed up with action, when it comes to addressing any of their critics concerns, including crime. One of the responses they’ve come up with is what they call "Restorative Justice" which gives first time shoplifters a chance to avoid being arrested or any criminal record if they take an on line course which costs $400 up front or $500 in payments, plus perhaps, reparations. This has been part of the privatization process and often denies suspects of the due process or access to a lawyer, perhaps even intimidating and extorting from some people that might not even be guilty. Walmart seems to be trying to find a way to turn crime into a profit making situation instead of looking for the most effective ways to reduce it. Making Change at Walmart is asking If you or someone you know has gone through @Walmart's "Restorative Justice" program for first-time suspected shoplifters, send us a DM. 03/30/2017 to ensure that it isn’t doing more harm than good. I did my own review of this program as well at Walmart’s “Restorative Justice” Endangers Public Without Reducing Crime. The following are a list of incidents that occurred in July 2020. According to the "Is Walmart Safe?" the average store in their sampling had 250 incidents per year indicating that these are only a fraction of the crime reports at Walmart, and presumably, the ones most likely to make the news on the internet nationwide. This isn't statistically representative, as the 2006 or the "Rolling Back Prices and Raising Crime Rates?" study or some of the studies cited by Stacy Mitchell; but it does provide some additional information that may help recognize how many problems there are at Walmart.



Walmart, Humana to team on testing 07/01/2020

Cape Coral Fla. police searching for Walmart thieves 07/01/2020

Stolen car crashes into escalator of Chamblee Ga. Walmart 07/01/2020

Someone driving a stolen vehicle crashed into the escalator of a Chamblee Walmart after fleeing a traffic stop Wednesday morning, police said.

The wreck happened at the Walmart Supercenter in the 1800 block of Chamblee Tucker Road, according to Chamblee police spokesman Lt. Chris Newberry.

The driver sped away from officers near the store Wednesday morning, Newberry said. The car then went into the parking deck under the shopping center, where it hit the escalator, he said. After the wreck, the driver got out and ran, police said. They have not been found. Complete article


2 Cielo Vista Tx. Walmart workers fired after customer is told ‘You’re in America, learn English’ 07/01/2020

EL PASO, Texas -- Two employees from El Paso's Cielo Vista Walmart store have been fired after a viral video surfaced showing one of the pair telling a Spanish-speaking customer, "No, you're in America, learn English."

"After reviewing the incident and the circumstances that led to the exchange, we have decided to terminate the employment of both associates involved," Walmart corporate spokesman Lorenzo Lopez told ABC-7 on Wednesday. Complete article


Electrical fire occurs at Appomattox Va. Walmart 07/01/2020

Just before 9:30 a.m. today, the Appomattox Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) was dispatched along with the Appomattox County Rescue Squad (ACRS) and Concord Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) for a "commercial structure fire" at Walmart in Appomattox.

Engine 3 arrived and investigated finding a small electrical fire in an appliance. No structural damage occurred, and all customers and associates evacuated safely.

Units operating on scene were AVFD Engine 2, Engine 3 and Ladder 7. The Appomattox County Sheriff's Office, CVFD and ACRS were returned to service. Complete article


Police: 10-year-old girl who disappeared from Colerain Ohio Walmart found safe 07/01/2020

Gray: Jefferson County NY now getting 5 complaints per hour about Walmart 07/01/2020

Walmart achieves goal of hiring 250,000 Veteran Associates 07/01/2020

Recent local COVID-19 cases visited Missouri Walmart, Wonders of Wildlife 07/01/2020

Police: Accused Red Bluff Ca. Walmart shooter was high and had assault rifle during 2018 arrest 07/01/2020

Eldorado man pleads guilty to Dec. 31 Ill. Walmart fire 07/01/2020

Detroit Lakes Minn. man will plead guilty in Nov. 2018 Walmart stabbing incident 07/01/2020

Woman accused of impersonating officer arrested outside Jacksonville Fla. Walmart 07/01/2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A man and woman told Jacksonville police that they were sitting at a stoplight on Collins Road, when a woman drove up behind them and began honking her horn when the light turned green.

According to an arrest report from the Sheriff’s Office, the driver who was being honked at drove into a Walmart shopping center and the woman continued honking her horn. He told police the woman placed a firearm on the dashboard of her car, and that’s when he called police.

That’s when police said the woman, identified as Donna King, 49, got out of her car and confronted the man and woman.

“It’s crazy that people would even pretend to be a police officer. That’s not something to play with at all, especially with everything that’s going on right now,” said Elizabeth Peacock, who told News4Jax she was in the car with her husband, her 3-week-old girl and 1-year-old son.

The man announced he was contacting police, to which King responded, “I am the police,” and displayed a badge, the Sheriff’s Office said. Complete article


City fires employee after racist confrontation at Iowa Walmart 07/02/2020

The City of Spencer fired an employee Thursday after investigating an altercation that occurred Wednesday evening at Walmart. The city employee hurled racist comments at another shopper and several times sent the scooter she was in toward the shopper and toward the cart holding the shopper’s 3-year-old daughter.

The incident was shared in a Facebook post by LaTasha Jackson, the target of the verbal attacks. The city issued a statement late Thursday afternoon on Facebook saying the employee identified in the complaint had been terminated effective immediately. The city stated earlier on Facebook that it had received a complaint regarding the incident and was investigating.

In an interview Thursday, Jackson said she and her kids were shopping at Walmart with one of her best friends. They were shopping with the friend, Jackson said, because the friend is pregnant and due very soon. Complete article


Walmart transforming 160 store parking lots into drive-ins 07/02/2020

Go for groceries, stay for the free movie – and keep social distance.

That’s what Walmart is hoping will draw customers in with its announcement Thursday that it will transform 160 of its store parking lots into drive-in theaters next month.

Walmart is launching the program next month in partnership with Tribeca Enterprises, the New York-based media company co-founded by Robert De Niro. The locations and movie lineup will be announced on a new Walmart Drive-In website, the retailer said in a news release. It’s unclear if the movies will be new releases, but admission is free, said Walmart spokeswoman LeMia Jenkins.

In the mostly rural towns where they still exist, drive-in movie theaters have grown in popularity as Americans look for entertainment options that allow for social distancing. In pre-pandemic times, the roughly 300 drive-in theaters in the U.S. struggled to compete with traditional movie houses. But the film industry – which relies on ticket sales from viewers gathering in proximity – has been hurt during the pandemic, with film festivals postponing, moving online or canceling altogether, and new releases postponed or moved straight to streaming sites like Netflix. Complete article


JCPD: 2 arrested after attempting to hide items inside trash can placed in shopping cart at Tenn. Walmart 07/02/2020

Couple sought after credit card stolen in The Villages used at Ocala Fla. Wal-Mart 07/02/2020

Macon Ga. man steals again from Walmart after previous banned from life order 07/02/2020

Man convicted in July 2017 shooting near Cedar Rapids Iowa Walmart gets new trial 07/02/2020

Two Juveniles arrested after armed incident at Allen Road Peoria Ill. Walmart 07/03/2020

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Peoria Police arrested two juveniles at the Walmart on Allen road Tuesday.

Peoria Police Public Information Officer Amy Dotson said the police were called to the Walmart around 5:45 p.m. after two males were recklessly driving the store’s electric convenience vehicles and almost hitting other customers.

The males were arguing with Walmart employees in the store’s parking lot when police arrived on the scene. One of the males was in possession of a firearm. Complete article


Thompson man says he was racially profiled at Manitoba Canada Walmart, told he looked 'like the type of person who drinks' 07/04/2020

Wayne Constant says he was 'appalled' and hurt after being told he couldn't come into northern Manitoba store

A First Nations man says he's angry and hurt after being racially profiled at a Thompson store where he's shopped for years — and the advocacy group that represents northern Manitoba First Nations says his story isn't unique.

Wayne Constant, 56, says he stopped by the Thompson Walmart after work on June 29 to pick up dog food and drinks. He was dressed casually in track pants, a Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation golf jacket and running shoes. He was taken aback when a security guard stopped him from entering.

"He put his hand up and said, 'You look like the type of person who drinks and I can't allow you to shop in Walmart,'" said Constant. Complete article


Walmart to open Medicare insurance agency in the Dallas market 07/02/2020

Walmart is jumping into the insurance brokerage business under the business name Walmart Insurance Services LLC. The Bentonville-based retailer is in the process of hiring Medicare insurance agents in the Dallas area.

Walmart did not respond to requests for comments, but the retailer plans to have the agents working the first week of August. In the employment ads, Walmart says it now “has an insurance agency.” The focus of hiring is for Medicare insurance agents and call center representatives, who according to the job listing will work remotely for Walmart Insurance Services LLC, a subsidiary of Walmart Apollo LLC.

“By joining our new team, you will be part of the first to experience this adventure as we grow this business. You will be responsible for helping the Medicare community in a meaningful way, by enrolling customers in Medicare products and services over the phone. You’ll provide helpful guidance, timely assistance, and an extraordinary level of care to customers who need your help,” the ad noted. Complete article


NJ Walmart Employee Charged with Theft 07/04/2020

Walmart to reopen looted stores after weeks of silence 07/03/2020

Saukville Wisc. police seek suspect in 7 Walmart thefts 07/03/2020

Man accused of firing deputy's gun in La. Walmart in June assisted by two women in flight from authorities 07/03/2020

Ill. Walmart workers come to man’s aid after riding mower slides into retention pond 07/03/2020

Off-duty Langston University officer opens fire on alleged shoplifting suspect outside Del City Okla. Walmart 07/04/2020

DEL CITY, Okla. — Police are investigating after they said an off-duty Langston University officer opened fire on an alleged shoplifting suspect outside a Walmart in Del City.

A witness' video shows the off-duty officer involved in an altercation with a shoplifting suspect in a car parked outside the Walmart near Southeast 15th Street and Sooner Road. The video then shows the driver back up with the officer still in close proximity to the vehicle, prompting him to grab his gun and open fire.

Almost a dozen gunshots could be heard in the video, which shows the driver fleeing the scene. Shortly after the shooting, Del City police officers could be seen arriving to the Walmart.

Police officials said the man was taken to an area hospital and is expected to be OK.

According to police, they've received reports that the man had a receipt but are hearing he tried to leave the Walmart with more than he paid for. Complete article

Police report details witness accounts after shooting outside Del City Walmart 07/07/2020

Arrest warrant issued for off-duty police officer who opened fire on suspect at Del City Okla. Walmart 07/24/2020


Woman Discovers Rattlesnake In Wheelchair At Murray Kentucky Walmart 07/04/2020

A woman travelling in a motorized wheelchair near a Kentucky Walmart discovered a rattlesnake under her seat on Sunday.

Murray police say the woman looked down to see the snake underneath her and was still in the chair when police arrived.

Officer Chris Garland said, "She couldn’t move, and I guess that was from being scared. Come to think of it, I probably would’ve froze too.” Complete article


Fla. Walmart Thief Said He Tried to be Slick but his Excuse Didn’t Stick 07/04/2020

'She just wanted to bring joy to my kids': Act of kindness at NC Walmart from complete stranger goes viral 07/05/2020

Man Wanted For Stealing From Long Island NY Walmart 07/06/2020

VERIFY: Woman mistakenly denied entry to a PG Md. Walmart because she wore a face shield, not mask 07/02/2020

Walmart Mich. shopper reports woman forced into a car at store parking lot 07/05/2020

Police officers reviewed surveillance video at Walmart, 5851 Mercury Drive, in Dearborn June 26 to determine whether a witness report of a woman being forced into a car was a crime or a heated argument between known parties.

The couple, who left in a silver Buick sedan prior to police officers arriving, were seen on surveillance video arguing inside and outside the store. The man appeared to be the more aggressive of the two, and was seen grabbing the woman’s arm several times.

After leaving the store and reaching their car, they continued to argue, with the woman entering, then exiting the vehicle, after which the man made a physical attempt to get her to re-enter the vehicle. After a few minutes, both are seen inside the car, leaving the parking lot as they drove toward Ford Road. Complete article


2 Walmart stores in central Arkansas forced to close temporarily after protests 07/05/2020

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Walmart Supercenters in Jacksonville and Sherwood were temporarily closed after protests on Sunday.

The Walmart on John Harden drive in Jacksonville closed after a group of protesters showed up at the store Sunday afternoon and reportedly blocked the entrance to the store. Management said the store has reopened.

After the group left the Jacksonville area around 2:30 p.m., they made their way to Walmart in Sherwood, located on Highway 107, causing it to temporarily close. As they blocked off the entrance to the store many began chanting "no justice no peace." Complete article

Jacksonville Walmart closes after protest; demonstration moves to Sherwood store 07/05/2020

'This isn't a day to celebrate'; Fourth of July protests pop-up across the NC Triangle 07/04/2020


Woman kept 14 cats, dog in hot U-Haul van in York County Va. Walmart parking lot, deputies say 07/06/2020

Camp Is In Session After All, Only It’s Virtual, At Camp By Walmart 07/06/2020

Official: Walmart donates $100,000 for new Arkansas statues, including one for Johnny Cash 07/06/2020

Suspect sought in Marlton NJ Walmart upskirting incident 07/06/2020

Young adults get into fight inside Sherwood Walmart, bystander fires shot into air 07/06/2020

SHERWOOD, Ark. – A fight at a Sherwood Walmart resulted in several arrests and one shot being fired into the air.

Earlier in the day nobody was even able to get into the Walmart parking lot. Police had blocked it off. Sherwood Police say this seemed like a big misunderstanding.

Earlier, police say a group of 4 to 5 young adults got into a fight inside the store. Then a bystander who has their conceal and carry permit, fired a round into the air to break up the fight, according to police.

Police told us everyone involved with the fight was arrested.

“Disorderly conduct for one. I’m not sure what other charges we are looking at right now,” said Sherwood Police Officer Richard McNeil.

The woman who fired the round into the air has not been charged at this time. Complete article


Customer Shoves NC Walmart Worker, Tells Him to 'Go Back to Your Own County' 07/06/2020

A Walmart customer has been captured on video pushing a store employee after allegedly telling him to "go back to your own country."

Mat Weber shared the video of the incident, which took place at a Walmart store in Arden, North Carolina, on his Facebook account last week.

In the brief clip, a white man in a red shirt is seen shoving a young employee, who is then led away by another worker. The video has been viewed more than 400,000 times since it was posted last Tuesday. Complete article


Walmart Says It Won't Disclose if You Contract COVID-19 in Its Stores 07/06/2020

The coronavirus pandemic has presented businesses of all kinds with countless new challenges. Perhaps more so than ever before, ensuring the safety of customers and employees is as important as it is complex. And one of the hardest decisions companies are currently faced with is whether or not to disclose information about employees who test positive for COVID-19. Walmart, for one, has adopted the approach that favors personal privacy.

In an email to the Orlando Sentinel, a spokesperson said in the event an employee tests positive for coronavirus, the company will leave the task of publicly identifying that person to local health officials "out of respect and privacy for our associates' personal health." Not offering up the names of infected individuals, however, doesn't mean the retail giant isn't doing its part, Walmart says.

"In the case we do have a confirmed case at any of our stores, we are working with those associates and offering guidance and time needed to receive medical care," the spokesperson said. "We have processes in place to inform associates." Complete article


Victim services available for Walmart employees who were working during Red Bluff Ca. shooting 07/06/2020

Sheriff’s office checks complaints about Batavia NY Walmart 07/06/2020

Blood drive coming to Ind. Walmart July 17 07/07/2020

Vero Beach Fla. Walmart shooter behind bars 19 years for house burglaries 07/06/2020

Athens Ga. police blotter: Former Walmart employee steals $27,000, man arrested for a DUI on July Fourth and more 07/06/2020

Meat, cheese products temporarily removed from Normal Ill. Walmart cases 07/06/2020

Police looking to identify Pa. Walmart theft suspects 07/06/2020

Stabbing at Longmont Colorado Walmart leaves one injured 07/08/2020

Longmont police are investigating a stabbing at the Walmart at 2285 East Ken Pratt Blvd. that left one person injured.

The call came in after 9 p.m. Tuesday night, and the injured person was transported to a hospital.

Longmont Deputy Chief Jeff Satur confirmed the stabbing, but could not provide other details, including the victim’s age or gender. Complete article


Someone set a fire in infant clothing department of Tx. Walmart 07/07/2020

TEMPLE, Texas (KWTX) - Authorities were investigating Tuesday after someone set a fire deliberately in the infant clothing department of the Walmart Supercenter at 6801 West Adams Ave. in Temple.

Crews responded at around 1:40 p.m. Tuesday.

Employees used extinguishers to douse the flames before firefighters arrived. Complete article


Racine man allegedly got into fight with Wisc. Walmart employee's father over mobility scooter 07/06/2020

MOUNT PLEASANT — A Racine man allegedly got into a fight in a Walmart parking lot with a Walmart employee’s father after the man offered the employee $100 to get a shopping cart scooter/mobility scooter for him.

Kendall Westmoreland, 28, of the 1400 block of Indiana Street, has been charged with disorderly conduct and felony bail jumping.

According to a criminal complaint:

On Thursday, officers were dispatched to Walmart at 3049 Oakes Road in regards to a fight in the parking lot between two males.

Upon arrival, officers broke up the fight.

Officers spoke with Walmart employees who stated that Westmoreland walked into the store and asked an employee for a motorized scooter with a shopping cart. The employee told Westmoreland where to find one. Westmoreland offered the employee $100 to get one for him and the employee told Westmoreland tips weren’t allowed; the employee told police that Westmoreland appeared to be “walking normally” and did not appear to need help getting the scooter.

He then became angry and started to argue with the employee, the criminal complaint states.

The employee’s parents were in the store at the time and the employee told her father what happened. He saw Westmoreland in the store and told him he didn’t like how he had spoken to his daughter. The two began to argue and then moved to the parking lot where surveillance video shows Westmoreland punching the father and starting the physical fight, police said. Complete article


Walmart employee says she stole to pay for prom and graduation: Mayfield Heights Police Blotter 07/02/2020

Walmart management reported June 24 that it had discovered that an employee had pocketed a total of more than $3,600 in cash from registers over a course of several weeks.

In a statement to the company, the 18-year-old Cleveland woman said she started taking the money to pay for her prom and graduation, before they were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

She said she did not plan to keep the money, but kept stealing it because she had not been caught. She was arrested and charged with eight counts of theft. Complete article


Man experiences ‘spooky’ encounter while alone in Walmart parking lot: ‘This freaked us out’ 07/07/2020

A TikTok user is going viral after sharing the strange phenomenon he witnessed while driving home from work one night.

The user, who goes by the name Blake on social media, shared the “creepy” experience during a video post in late June. In the clip, the TikToker shows his late-night view from inside a Walmart parking lot, where dozens of street lamps seem to be flashing rapidly at once.

“Saw this on my way [home] from work. Shiz was creepy as hell,” he wrote. Complete article


Pokin Around: I don't expect answer, but: Why does this Walmart keep condoms locked up? 07/07/2020

I’m going to call this a “Pokin Around” column not because my name is “Pokin” and the subject matter is condoms. I would never stoop so low.

Instead, I'm going to call it "Pokin Around" because I don’t want to label it an “Answer Man.” I doubt I’m going to get an answer.

At least not in this decade.

A reader, who will remain unnamed, told me he recently went condom-shopping and for the first time did so at the Walmart Supercenter at 2021 E. Independence St. in Springfield.

He was stunned by the store’s condom protocol, if there is such a thing.

He found what he was looking for, but it was in a locked display. He had never seen such security, such protection.

To make his purchase, he had to flag down a store employee to open the display. He found this rather awkward.

And then, he was told he was not allowed to carry the condoms with him as he continued his shopping — he had to immediately pay for them at the pharmacy or drop them off there and pay when he was ready to check out.

This seemed very odd to him.

It seems odd to me.

It makes me wonder if the store has a problem with customers buying condoms and immediately using them in the store.

All I can say is that it’s never happened to me. Complete article


SILVER ALERT: 72-year-old man last seen at Walmart in Taylorsville Utah 07/07/2020 The Silver Alert has been canceled.

The truth about Walmart's new drive-in theaters 07/07/2020 Even if Walmart does offer those movies free of charge, the chain won't be losing money, since they stand to make a bundle off all of the concessions that will be available for sale courtesy of their stores. As the announcement indicates: "Ahead of each screening, Walmart will make it easy for families to fill their picnic baskets by ordering their drive-in essentials online for curbside pickup on the way to their movie."

Ga. Walmart employee arrested for theft 07/07/2020

Man wounded in Sept. 2018 Ind. Walmart gang shooting admits to weapons violation 07/07/2020

May Theft at Kansas Walmart results in $2,600 loss 07/07/2020

LaGrange Ga. Walmart distribution center employee contracts COVID-19, worries about spread at facility 07/07/2020

SMCSO Seeking Identity of Suspect That Walked Out Md. Walmart With Full Cart Of Merchandise 07/07/2020

PA. POLICE REPORTS: DRUG BUST, WALMART THEFT 07/07/2020

Lufkin Tx. Walmart Sets New Guidelines Beginning July 8 07/08/2020

Person found dead in Ashland Va. Walmart parking lot 07/08/2020

ASHLAND, Va. -- An investigation is underway after a person was found dead in the parking lot of an Ashland Walmart.

Police responded to the Walmart at 145 Hill Carter Parkway around 7 p.m. Wednesday and found a person dead in a car.

This is an ongoing investigation and will be updated as details develop. Complete article


PD: Yuma pair arrested after refusing to wear masks, coughing on Ariz. Walmart employees 07/08/2020

YUMA, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) – Two people were arrested in Yuma after police say they were coughing on Walmart employees after being asked to wear a face mask in the store Wednesday.

Officials with the Yuma Police Department say their officers were called to a Walmart store located near US Highway 95 and 24th Street just before 11. a.m. after employees of the store wanted two people removed from the store property. Police were told Frank Montoya, 38, and Victoria Parra Carranza, 23, had refused to wear a mask in the store and were “coughing on employees.”

When police tried to stop and talk with Montoya and Parra Carranza, they refused and Montoya “became confrontational.” He took off running, but was caught and fought with officers after they got him, police say. While officers were trying to detain Montoya, Parra Carranza tried to interfere with officers, fighting with them as well. Both were arrested. Complete article


2 arrested after disabled veteran’s scooter stolen at Fla. Walmart in Palm Bay 07/08/2020

Carson Tahoe Health reopens clinics at Nevada Walmarts 07/08/2020

WANTED: Man accused of stealing wallet inside New Roads La. Walmart 07/0/2020

Tehama DA: Police justified in shooting man at Ca. Walmart facility 07/08/2020

Normal Ill. Walmart requiring customers to wear face coverings 07/09/2020

Presque Isle Maine Walmart will require customers to wear masks 07/09/2020

Walmart in Saginaw Mich. won't allow you in the store unless you have a face covering 07/08/2020

Police dispatched to Wash. Walmart for woman refusing to wear a mask 07/09/2020

Police searching for man involved in State College Pa. Walmart thefts 07/08/2020

1 person injured in shooting at Walmart in Birmingham Alabama 07/09/2020

IRONDALE, Ala. (WBMA) — According to the Birmingham Police Department, one person was injured in a shooting at the Walmart on Montclair Road.

Around 7:20 p.m. officers responded to a call of a person shot at the location.

Once on the scene police said they discovered the victim suffering from a gunshot wound.

The victim was taken to a local hospital with what police called non-life threatening injuries. Complete article


Suspect in shooting at El Paso Tx. Walmart faces new charges related to death of hospitalized victim 07/09/2020

Suspicious package forces evacuation of Harahan La. Walmart 07/09/2020

NY Walmart now using security officers to remind shoppers to wear masks 07/09/2020

Greensburg man sentenced 22-to-44 months for Pa. Walmart Jan. robbery 07/09/2020

NY Walmart worker charged with grand larceny 07/09/2020

Recent, unmasked COVID-19 cases from Greene County visited Missouri Walmart, Walgreens, Starbucks 07/09/2020

Manassas man arrested after 8-year-old reports indecent exposure at Va. Walmart 07/09/2020

Oregon State police looking for witnesses of two incidents in Marion County 07/09/2020

Scooter stolen from Florida Walmart returned to disabled vet 07/09/2020

Bad Axe Mich. Walmart changes policy in response to coronavirus 07/09/2020

Bakersfield Ca. PD looking for 2 suspects in armed robbery at Walmart store 07/10/2020

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Bakersfield Police Department is looking for two men wanted for an armed robbery at a Walmart store last month.

The department said the incident occurred on June 21 at the Walmart located at 5075 Gosford Road. The suspects stole several items from the store before fleeing. As they left, BPD said a loss prevention employee attempted to stop them, at which point one of the suspects pointed a handgun at the employee. Complete article


58 staffers at a Walmart fulfillment center in Fort Worth Tx. have tested positive for COVID-19, worker tells OSHA 07/10/2020

The person filed a formal complaint Thursday, saying that there were five more presumed cases and that social distancing wasn't being enforced.

An employee at a Walmart fulfillment center in Fort Worth has filed a report with federal regulators saying that the facility has had 58 confirmed COVID-19 cases and that social distancing isn’t being properly enforced.

The complaint, filed Thursday with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, said managers had disclosed to employees that 58 co-workers had tested positive for COVID-19 and that five more were presumed positive.

The employee has worked at the facility, at 5300 Westport Parkway, since before the pandemic started but wanted to remain anonymous beyond that, according to United for Respect, a group formed to advocate for front-line retail store and fulfillment center workers.

In the filing, the Walmart employee said the infected employees had been working in the packing and picking areas for inbound and outbound merchandise.

“Social distancing has not been enforced at six feet. The number of positive cases continues to rise,” the employee said in the report. Complete article


Walmart registers defensive domains for its U.S. CEO, but… 07/09/2020

These domain registrations don’t make a lot of sense. Walmart has registered over 20 domain names related to its Walmart U.S. CEO John Furner.

Companies make these sorts of “defensive” domain name registrations all the time, with the hope of keeping domains out of the hands of detractors. It’s mostly a futile effort. ....

Yet it didn’t register obvious domains like JohnFurnerSucks.com. If someone wants to write something bad about Furner, it’s going to choose that domain instead of ceo-j-furner.com.

The timing of the registrations is curious, too. Furner was named to his current position last year. Why register these domains now? And why hasn’t Walmart registered the equivalent domains for its main CEO, Doug McMillon?

Is Furner about to be tapped for a promotion, or is something derogatory about him or Walmart about to come out? Complete article


Marc Lore continues to sell his Walmart stock 07/10/2020

Walmart CEO of Walmart eCommerce Marc Lore sold another 85,000 shares of his Walmart holdings in nine different transactions dated July 7, according to filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The transactions fetched $10.485 million for Lore and marked the fifth consecutive month of sizable downsizing in his Walmart shares.

Since mid-March Lore has sold 425,000 of his Walmart shares totaling more than $51.465 million. Lore’s personal holdings of Walmart shares totaled 1.953 million shares with a value of $251.377 million after the July 7 transactions.

Many of the shares result from the $3.3 billion Lore received for his interest in Jet.com, which Walmart acquired in August 2016. Earlier this year Walmart announced the wind-down of the Jet.com operations folding most of the positions into Walmart.com. He also regularly receives shares as deferred compensation in Walmart shares for his CEO role. Complete article


Maskless Walmart Shopper Tells Women Filming Him: ‘Lick My Ass! Why Don’t You Burn a Monument Down?’ (WATCH) 07/10/2020

Right-wing Twitter users are praising a mask-less shopper shown in a viral video telling two women to “lick my ass” after they filmed him inside a Walmart store.

One Twitter user who appeared to be a supporter of President Donald Trump, Josh Lekach, wrote above the video, “I LOVE THIS GUY!”

One of the women began filming the bearded, heavyset man in a camouflage baseball cap after he went the wrong way down a paint aisle without a mask.

“Yeah, take a picture of me. Does that make you feel better? Why don’t you get a life, lady?” the man says in the video. “Going around, taking pictures of people. I feel so sorry for you.” Complete article


Winter Haven man accused of recording video under girl's dress at Fla. Walmart 07/10/2020

Kansas Walmart Thieve Sought 07/1/2020

Virginia Supreme Court upholds decision blocking Walmart from electricity choice 07/10/2020

Cortland woman caught shoplifting at NY Walmart 07/10/2020

Woman arrested after shooting in Macon Ga. Walmart parking lot 07/11/2020

Investigators say a woman pulled out a pistol in the Gray Highway Walmart parking lot and began firing at another woman

MACON, Ga. — A Macon woman is in jail Saturday after a shooting in the parking lot of the Walmart on Gray Highway.

According to a news release, deputies responded to a call of a person shot around 8 p.m. Saturday.

When they got to the scene, they found that no one had actually been shot.

Witnesses told deputies that a female customer was going to her car when 62-year-old Lucy Meeks said something to the customer.

The sheriff’s office says when the woman asked Meeks what she said, Meeks pulled out a pistol and began shooting. Complete article


Hatchet-swinging man arrested after Brunswick Maine Walmart parking lot incident, police allege 07/12/2020

BRUNSWICK, Maine — Brunswick officials say they arrested a man after he allegedly swung a hatchet during a Walmart parking lot fight Saturday afternoon.

Police say 24-yr-old Robert W. McKenney Jr. of Brunswick was arrested and charged with Reckless Conduct with a Dangerous Weapon, and Violating Conditions of Release after the incident.

When police arrived, they helped the 22-year-old victim of the hatchet swing. Police say the man was not injured and escaped with just ripped pants.

McKenney Jr. had already left the parking lot by the time officers arrived, according to the Brunswick PD. Complete article


Las Cruces NM Walmart forced to close as 4 workers test positive for COVID-19 07/11/2020

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A Walmart in Las Cruces will close temporarily after four of its employees tested positive for the coronavirus over the past three weeks.

The location on Rinconda Boulevard must close immediately. Walmart said it is not requiring those who have tested positive to self-quarantine for 14 days, nor are they notifying individuals who may have come in contact with them.

The New Mexico Environment Department is urging customers who've been at the location since June 22 to get tested. Complete article

Walmart reopens, disputes state's characterization of policy 07/12/2020


Houghton Mich. Walmart petitions to lower taxable value 07/10/2020

HOUGHTON — The Walmart Supercenter in Houghton has filed a petition with the Michigan Tax Tribunal to lower its taxable value by 40% through the “dark store” theory.

If granted, Walmart’s state equalized value and taxable value for 2020 would be reduced from $4,562,390 (about $50 per square foot) to $3,050,000 (about $30 per square foot). That would translate to an annual $120,000 hit to the city, county and local schools, City Manager Eric Waara said. For the city, the cost would amount to half an employee, he said.

“That’s more than half of the base wages of one of those persons who routinely responds to Walmart’s almost daily calls to a problem at their store, or half the base wages of one of those persons who plows the streets all winter so people can drive to their store, or a bus driver who drives people to their store every day,” Waara said.

The city council voted Wednesday night to allow Waara, the city’s attorney and city assessor to reach a reasonable agreement with Walmart. The city must respond to Walmart’s petition by July 22, Clerk Ann Vollrath said. Complete article


UPDATE: Ky. Walmart reopened after evacuation Saturday 07/11/2020 The Walmart in Corbin was evacuated Saturday afternoon as law enforcement investigated a bomb threat.

Fayette Mall, Target, Walmart release statements on Kentucky mask mandate 07/10/2020

Elkhart County Ind. Sheriff searching for individual involved in Walmart theft 07/1/2020

Sevierville Tenn. detectives still searching for person of interest in assault outside Walmart Market in June 07/12/2020

Wanted man arrested at gunpoint in south Austin Tx. Walmart parking lot after high speed chase 07/12/2020

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Two wanted men were arrested following a high speed police chase with sheriff’s deputies on Saturday, according to an arrest affidavit.

David Duran, 40, was apprehended in a Walmart parking lot in south Austin while Nieves Garcia III, 42, was arrested after bailing out of Duran’s moving vehicle during the pursuit.

A deputy with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office said in the affidavit that they were on patrol in Slaughter Creek Drive when they noticed a suspicious vehicle.

An investigation found that an individual affiliated with the Honda Pilot owner’s address had an active felony warrant.

When the deputy entered the road, a dead end, the Honda attempted to leave, according to the affidavit. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Duran, told the deputy he was dropping off a friend before work.

Duran was shown to have an active warrant listing him as a parole violator who is armed and dangerous, the affidavit said.

The deputy attempted to detain Duran but he drove off, sparking a pursuit, the affidavit says. A man later identified as Garcia III was in the front passenger seat. Complete article


Mid-Michigan Walmart store listed as possible coronavirus exposure site 07/12/2020

Walmart rings up largest share of Va. food, drug sales 07/12/2020

Report: Man arrested for leaving dog in hot car outside Pensacola Fla. Walmart 07/13/2020

‘Apologetic’ suspect arrested in theft of merchandise at Fla. Wal-Mart 07/13/2020

Feds offer $5,000 reward after guns stolen from Walmart in Fayetteville NC 07/13/2020

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Federal officials Monday announced a $5,000 reward for information about gun looting that happened at a Fayetteville Walmart in late May.

The reward will be paid if the info leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible during the May 31 incident, according to a news release from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Nearly 20 survellience photos of suspects were included in the news release.

“During a period of civil unrest, several individuals broke into the Walmart Supercenter located at 2820 Gillespie Street,” the release said.

According to the officials multiple guns were stolen during the break-in. Complete article


Joplin Missouri police give details into a Walmart incident 07/13/2020

JOPLIN, Mo. – Joplin police give details into an incident at Walmart’s 7th Street Market that was caught on camera and shared on social media.

According to Captain William Davis, after receiving a call about a man trespassing, a female officer got to the Walmart store and tried to make contact with the man. Davis says the suspect, a 30-year-old Joplin resident, appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance.

The suspect allegedly refused to give his identity and walked away from the officer. They were near the check out lanes at this time. Davis says the officer deployed her taser, hitting the suspect. The suspect removed one of the barbs, got up and ran off.

The officer deployed a second taser cartridge, but didn’t hit the suspect. As another officer arrived on scene, Davis says the suspect assaulted the female officer.

The second officer used his taser, missing the suspect. Police then chased him to the back of the store, running down two different aisles. When the suspect got back to the check out lanes, the second officer deployed another taser cartridge. One barb hit the suspect and the other barb hit a Walmart employee. Davis says neither one received a shock from the taser. Complete article


Two arrested for stealing from Hermantown Minn. Walmart and fleeing police 07/13/2020

Two men are facing charges after fleeing the scene of a possible theft.

Around 6:15 p.m., Hermantown Police Officers were dispatched to Walmart, on a report of a male shoplifter who was allegedly concealing merchandise into a backpack.

Officers arrived and learned the male suspect was leaving the Walmart parking lot in a motor vehicle with another male. Officers did a license plate check, finding the vehicle was recently stolen from Duluth. Officers say they attempted to perform a felony traffic stop on the two men, but the vehicle fled south on Loberg Avenue, towards Maple Grove Road at a high rate of speed. Officers ended the pursuit near the Volkswagon dealership.

Authorities say within minutes, they drove upon a crash involving that stolen vehicle, which had left the roadway near the intersection of Stebner Road and Maple Grove Road. The vehicle crashed into a utility box that controls traffic signals at that intersection. Authorities say the two men fled on foot into the woods, but were located a short time later with assistance from nearby residents and K-9 Jack. The two men were arrested. Complete article


Defense lawyers claim accused El Paso Walmart shooter has ‘mental disabilities’ 07/13/2020

Some Walmart stores adding “health ambassadors” due to pandemic 07/14/2020

Police: Mother charged after leaving kids in hot car at Springfield Mass. Walmart parking lot 07/13/2020

Man who started ND Walmart fire sent to prison 07/13/2020 A man accused in December of pouring lighter fluid on a Bible and setting it on fire at a Bismarck Walmart had been awake for nearly two weeks because of a methamphetamine addiction, his attorney told a judge on Monday. Walmart is seeking restitution for damages totaling more than $540,000.

Terre Haute man accused of stealing 55″ television from Clinton Ind. Walmart 07/13/2020

Two cookware crooks steal from North Fort Myers Fla. Walmart 07/13/2020

Maskless shopper pulls gun on masked man at Florida Walmart 07/14/2020

ROYAL PALM BEACH, Fla. — An argument between two shoppers at a South Florida Walmart turned dangerous Saturday, with an unmasked man pulling a gun on a shopper who was wearing a face-covering, authorities said.

According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the argument between the two shoppers at the store in Royal Palm Beach escalated to the point where the unmasked man pulled the gun and threatened to kill the other shopper, the Sun-Sentinel reported.

According to security camera video, the unmasked man was pushing an older man in a wheelchair at the store, the newspaper reported. The man in the wheelchair had a red neckerchief.

The unmasked shopper was approached by another man, and after a verbal exchange he made an obscene gesture, the Sun-Sentinel reported. The unmasked man then pulled a handgun from his waistband and made the threat, according to the Sheriff’s Office. Complete article

Man accused of pulling gun on father, daughter at Fla. Walmart arrested 07/23/2020


Officer kills man accused of stabbing 77-year-old in fight over mask, Michigan cops say 07/14/2020 (Not at Walmart)

A fight over wearing face masks at a store led to an officer killing a man several miles away from the store, Michigan police say.

A 77-year-old man confronted a 43-year-old who wasn’t wearing a face mask inside a Quality Dairy store in Dimondale on Tuesday morning, Michigan State Police say.

The man not wearing a mask, who was refused service by the store, stabbed the older man during the argument and then left the scene, police say.

Eaton County Sheriff’s Office deputies found the 43-year-old several miles away in Delta Township and pulled over his vehicle, police say. The man got out of his vehicle and began approaching a deputy while holding a knife, leading the officer to retreat and shoot him, police say. Complete article


Man struck, killed by semi outside Rockford Ill. Walmart 07/15/2020

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — A man was struck and killed by a semi-truck outside of the Walmart on Walton street Wednesday morning.

Police are on the scene investigating.

This is a developing story… Complete article

Man killed in Rockford Ill. Walmart parking lot sought shelter under semi 07/17/2020


Walmart shopper hits cop with car after refusing to wear a mask, Louisiana police say 07/15/2020

A Louisiana man was behind bars Wednesday after he was accused of backing into an off-duty officer who asked him to wear a face covering.

West Monroe police arrested Ricky Taylor, 64, outside a Walmart Supercenter on Tuesday after police say he became “unruly” and refused to adhere to the store’s face mask policy, according to an arrest report posted online.

Police said Taylor began cursing the officer when he was offered a mask and shouted, “You can’t make me wear a (expletive) mask! I’m not wearing a (expletive) mask.” The dispute escalated from there.

An officer informed Taylor he was being put on a trespass notice, as requested by the business, and was asked to leave, according to police. The officer requested his driver’s license as he left, but Taylor refused, saying to him, “I could give it to you — but I’m not.” Complete article


Police: Man assaulted Wayne Co. Ky. Walmart employee over mask request 07/15/2020

WAYNE COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — A Monticello man was arrested Sunday on an assault warrant, stemming from an alleged altercation over face coverings at a local Walmart.

Police say Johnny Gibson grabbed a Walmart employee Saturday morning, around her neck, after they say she told him he would need to put a mask on before entering the store.

The incident was recorded on the store's video security system. Complete article


Woman calls mask wearers ‘cult members’ as she’s asked to leave Central Florida Walmart 07/14/2020

Woman calls mask wearers ‘cult members’ as she’s asked to leave Central Florida Walmart.

The person who filmed the video said she was walking into the store as the woman was being asked to leave by a store manager.

In the video, the woman being asked to leave can be heard swearing and saying, “I’m not wearing a mask.” Complete article


Walmart Hit With CCPA Lawsuit Over Alleged Data Breach 07/14/2020

A San Francisco resident who says his personal data was stolen from Walmart by hackers is suing the company for allegedly violating California's new privacy law.

Walmart “failed to implement and maintain reasonable security procedures and practices,” Lavarious Gardiner alleges in a class-action complaint filed Friday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

A Walmart spokesperson says the company disputes the claims and plans to defend itself. Complete article


Walmart will start requiring all customers to wear masks 07/15/2020

New York (CNN Business)Walmart, the world's largest retailer, is the latest national chain to require all customers to wear masks.

The change will start next week. Starbucks (SBUX)said last week that it will require customers to wear facial coverings or masks in all 9,000 of its company-owned US stores beginning Wednesday. Best Buy (BBY) announced Tuesday that it will also require all shoppers coming into its approximately 1,000 stores to wear face masks. Costco (COST) began requiring its members to wear masks in stores beginning in May.

Although no federal mandate to wear a mask exists, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says everyone "should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public." The CDC said "face coverings are meant to protect other people." Complete article

Walmart's CEO won't commit to requiring masks in all stores — but says it's 'on our minds' 07/14/2020


Roberto Hipolito Reaches Plea Deal For Minn. Walmart Car Fire on Aug. 6, 2019 That Killed Ty’rah White, 6 07/14/2020

Dalton PD: Improperly masked man scams Walmart stores in Dalton, Fort Oglethorpe, Calhoun Ga. 07/14/2020

New virus testing sites to launch at 8 El Paso Tx. Walmart stores 07/14/2020

Jasper Alabama Walmart requests shoppers wear masks, deletes post 07/15/2020

Benton County Arkansas judge rejects plea agreement in scam arrest involving Walmart gift cards 07/15/2020 Benton County Circuit Judge Robin Green questioned why Liu was pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge instead of a felony. Gean said Liu is expected to be indicted by federal authorities and prosecutors haven't located any local people scammed by Liu. ..... Investigators believe Liu's activity in a month netted $500,000 to $1 million in fraudulent gift cards, the affidavit states.

Ocean Springs Miss. PD says Walmart rumors on fining people away are false 07/14/2020

Walmart employee in Owosso Mich. gets coronavirus, possibly exposing customers 07/13/2020

Man sentenced for coughing on Henry County Tenn. Walmart customers, in April, claiming he had COVID-19 07/14/2020

Florida Governor Orders All Children to Work at Walmart and Home Depot This Fall 07/14/2020 Andy Borowitz Report Satire

Kitty Hawk NC Police looking for woman accused of stealing Walmart merchandise 07/15/2020

Norfolk Va. police investigate double shooting in Walmart parking lot 07/15/2020

Two people were shot Wednesday afternoon in a Walmart parking lot, according to the Norfolk Police Department.

Dispatchers received a call reporting a shooting around 2:50 p.m. in the parking lot at 1170 N. Military Highway.

Officers found a woman with injuries from a gunshot wound. The injuries were not considered life-threatening, and she was taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

Police said a man, who also had a gunshot wound that was not considered life-threatening, walked into Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for treatment.

The shooting is believed to be an isolated incident, police said in a news release. No suspect information has been released. Complete article

3 people arrested in connection with Norfolk Va. Walmart parking lot shooting 07/2/2020


Face masks prove flash point at Geneseo NY Walmart 07/15/2020

GENESEO – Police Chief Eric Osganian attributed a handful of recent confrontations between Walmart employees and customers who didn’t want to wear face masks to a recent change in store policy.

Officers responded to the Veteran Drive store for reports of customers upset about having to wear face masks, or refusing to wear masks outright, three separate times Sunday. Officers responded to the store again on Monday for a group of customers who initially refused to wear face masks, but then acquiesced once store employees called the police. No charges were filed or citations issued as a result of the confrontations, said Osganian.

Geneseo resident Corrin Strong had a similar experience at Walmart Sunday, though it did not end in a call to police. Strong, who last week turned his Main Street printing store, Genesee Graphics, into a mask free zone (click here to learn more), helps run the Free Livingston County NY Facebook page.

Created in April to push back against state-imposed business shutdowns, the group has expanded its message in recent weeks to oppose measures public health officials say will help slow the spread of the coronavirus – the wearing of face masks among them. It now boasts nearly than 1,200 members. Complete article


UPDATE: Okla. Gov. Kevin Stitt tests positive for COVID-19; recent photo shows him at Walmart without mask on 07/15/2020

UPDATE: KFOR reported earlier today that Gov. Kevin Stitt announced that he tested positive for COVID-19. Since that report, community members have notified KFOR that Stitt was recently seen in public not wearing a face mask or face covering.

One viewer sent KFOR a photo of Stitt recently out in public without a mask on.

The following photo of Stitt shows him without a mask on while in the Walmart at Memorial and Pennsylvania in Oklahoma City. The photo, which is said to have been taken on Sunday, July 12, was posted on Facebook. The person who sent the photo to KFOR wishes to remain anonymous. Complete article


Charlie Minn’s documentary film titled ‘915’ offers disturbing look at El Paso Tx. Walmart shooting 07/15/2020

No additional employees at Rinconada NM Walmart have yet tested positive for COVID-19 07/15/2020

Health professionals weigh in on Walmart mask mandate 07/15/2020

WDTN.com Ohio readers weigh in on Walmart’s mandatory mask decision 07/15/2020

Walmart closes 2 Houston Tx.-area stores for disinfecting 07/16/2020

‘Enough is enough’: Boy shot, killed near Walmart in west Charlotte NC 07/16/2020

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are investigating a homicide Thursday evening after they said a young boy was shot to death in west Charlotte.

Officers were called to the scene just before 5:30 p.m. on Ashley Road at Wilkinson Boulevard. The shooting happened in the parking lot of the Murphy USA convenience store near a Walmart. Paramedics said a male juvenile was shot in the head and died at the scene. The victim’s name has not yet been released.

From Chopper 9 Skyzoom, dozens of officers could be spotted at the scene, which was roped off with crime scene tape. Complete article


Columbia Tenn. police investigate fight at Walmart 07/16/2020

One person was sent to Maury Regional Medical Center on Wednesday after a physical confrontation between multiple people at the Walmart in Columbia.

Lt. Tony Gray of the Columbia Police Department said that one patient was transported to the local hospital by EMS after the fight. He said the patient suffered minor injuries that occurred around 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Some accounts of the altercation shared by members of the public on social media said as many as 10 people were involved, punching and throwing merchandise at one another near the store’s pharmacy.

One woman reportedly was knocked to the floor and bloodied from the punches thrown in the clash. Complete article

Police issue changes following brawl at Columbia Walmart 07/30/2020


Walmart and Home Depot among Nevada businesses penalized in COVID-19 compliance report 07/16/2020

Man pleads guilty in bottle return slip scam at Fowlerville Mich. Walmart 07/16/2020

CAUGHT IN THE ACT: Alabama Walmart shoplifter 07/16/2020

Man and woman wanted for La. Walmart theft 07/16/2020

Man charged with ethnic intimidation after incidents at 2 Asheville NC Walmart stores 07/17/2020

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — An Asheville man was arrested Friday in connection with recent incidents at local Walmart stores.

Police said employees at both Walmarts in South Asheville reported a customer communicating threats to staff and, in one case, assaulting a staff member. The confrontations happened June 30 and July 16.

Asheville Police Department detectives arrested James Lawrence Owensby, 43, of Asheville, on charges of simple assault, two counts of communicating a threat and ethnic intimidation. Complete article


Porn-addicted probation officer accused of taking upskirt video at Fla. Walmart 07/17/2020

A porn-addicted probation officer in Florida is facing charges after he was caught using his cellphone to record video beneath a woman’s dress at Walmart, police said.

Darius Brantley, a 29-year-old employee for the state’s Department of Juvenile Justice, was taken into custody Thursday after admitting to taking upskirt video at the store on Monday, according to an arrest report obtained by the Tampa Bay Times.

Brantley was caught on surveillance camera inside the Tampa store approaching a woman twice while using his phone to take video footage beneath her dress, police said. Complete article


Disputes over masks caught on camera inside South Florida Walmart stores 07/17/2020

Disputes over masks caught on camera inside South Florida Walmart stores

One shopper is seen picking up store displays and walking toward the man, shouting and upset over the man not wearing a facial covering.

Meanwhile, tempers also were flaring this week inside a Royal Palm Beach Walmart store when a mask-less man pulled out a gun. Complete article


Surveillance images released of man wanted in Ca. Walmart burglary 07/16/2020

Shoplifter duo steals from Okla. Walmart, police say 07/17/2020

Man Shaves Glorious Beard to Prove to 'Walmart Karen' That You Can Wear a Mask 07/17/2020

Death of man beaten in Apple Glen Ind. Walmart parking lot in March ruled a homicide 07/17/2020

Man leaves Walmart with cart full of stolen beer 07/17/2020

XXThe Jolt: Customer requirements by Walmart, Kroger make mask mandates a property rights issue 07/16/2020

Wear A Mask In Walmart Or Face Consequences: Gwinnett County Ga. 07/16/2020

Vehicle shot in Horseheads NY Walmart parking lot after road rage incident 07/19/2020

HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WETM) – A window was shot out of a vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart in Horseheads after an alleged road rage incident in the area on Saturday Morning.

Chemung County Sherriff Bill Schrom told 18 News that members of the Chemung County Sherriff’s Office responded to the Walmart on County Route 64 at around 8:00 a.m. after an individual witnessed a male subject shoot out a window of a vehicle in the parking lot. The suspect vehicle was seen leaving the area eastbound on Interstate 86.

The Chemung County Sherriff’s Office, New York State Police and the Elmira Police Department conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle to further investigate. A subject inside the vehicle was identified as Ryan Willsey, 20. Willsey allegedly took out a BB gun handgun and shot out the other person’s window after an alleged road rage incident with the person. The bullet caused damage to the vehicle but there were no injuries to anyone inside the car. Complete article


Cars catch fire in RI Walmart parking lot 07/19/2020

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Cranston Police say seven vehicles caught on fire at a Walmart parking lot this afternoon.

Police say six of those cars were engulfed in fire on Plainfield Pike and they are currently investigating.

Two people were transported to Rhode Island Hospital with minor injuries. Complete article


Nikki Haley and former Walmart U.S. president Bill Simon: Coronavirus makes the case for bringing manufacturing back to America 07/18/2020

Wichita Falls police arrested a second suspect in a crime spree at a Walmart store 07/18/2020

Nevada fines Home Depot store, several Walmarts for COVID-19 safety noncompliance 07/15/2020

Falls man caught switching tags at NY Walmart 07/19/2020

Argument at Mount Pleasant Tx. Walmart leads to gun being pulled 07/20/2020

MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas (KLTV) - A woman allegedly pulled a gun at Mount Pleasant’s Walmart after an argument between two people escalated Sunday afternoon, according to police.

A press release stated that officers with the Mount Pleasant responded to the Walmart store located at 2311 Jefferson at about 1:44 p.m. Sunday to check out a report of a woman with a gun.

“Through the course of this investigation, officers determined two ladies had an argument earlier in the store with another lady and a man,” the press release stated.

When the two groups approached the check-out area, the argument escalated. At that point, one of the people involved pulled out a gun, the press release stated. Complete article

Woman arrested following Mount Pleasant Walmart gun incident 07/21/2020


Man wanted in connection with bank robbery inside Tx. Walmart gives teller note blaming COVID-19 for crime 07/20/2020

HOUSTON – Police are searching for a man wanted in connection with a bank robbery in southwest Houston.

The incident happened around 9 a.m. on July 8 at the Woodforest National Bank inside the Walmart on Hillcroft Avenue near South Braeswood Boulevard, police said.

Police said the man entered the bank just after it opened, said he needed to make a withdrawal and handed the teller a note.

“I didn’t get a stimulus or that $10,000 loan” the note read. “I lost my business to COVID-19, so please make this easy and comply. I don’t wanna hurt nobody but will if I have to. Any suspicious moves and I will start shooting, so please go get my money. Don’t make anything noticeable.”

Police said the teller did not see a weapon, but she complied with the note because she was afraid for her life. The man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash, police said. Complete article


Woman charged for fire at Ky. Walmart 07/21/2020

An Owensboro woman was charged with felony arson Monday in connection to a fire that broke out at Walmart.

Owensboro Police Department reports say the incident occurred at 7;40 p.m. Sunday at the Walmart store at 5031 Frederica St. Reports say clothing was set on fire but that the building itself was not damaged.

The store was occupied, but no one was injured. Complete article


Mitchell Man Arrested After Threatening To Hurt Customers At Walmart 07/20/2020

(BEDFORD) – A Mitchell man was arrested Sunday afternoon after Bedford Police officers were called to Walmart after a report of a man threatening to hurt customers.

When officers arrived they confronted 25-year-old Tyler Stailey about the complaint.

“Employees confirmed that Tyler had threatened customers and staff and when asked about it Tyler admitted to wanting to harm himself or someone else,” Chief Terry Moore said. “Officers removed a large machete from Tyler’s backpack and took him into custody.” Complete article


Man spits on woman during face mask dispute at Walmart in Wayne County Pa. 07/20/2020

HONESDALE, Pa. — An argument over face masks ended with a man spitting in a woman's face in Wayne County.

State police said the woman was shopping at Walmart near Honesdale Sunday when she noticed two people without masks.

She asked them to wear masks.

One put a mask on, but troopers said Evan Spandenberger, of Preston Park, would not and started arguing with the woman.

The woman went to customer service and asked for police to be called.

That's when troopers said Spangenberg spit on the woman's face. Complete article


Police: Ill. Walmart fight, arrest stemmed from people not wearing masks 07/20/2020

RANTOUL, Ill. (WAND) - A Gifford woman is facing charges after police said she was involved in a fight over people not wearing masks at a Rantoul Walmart.

Rantoul law enforcement told The News-Gazette they were called at 3:25 p.m. Sunday to a report of a fight at the store. Witnesses told authorities a customer got into an argument and fight with multiple customers and employees because the suspect and her husband did not have masks on.

Authorities arrested Angela Gifford, 48. She is charged with aggravated battery. Complete article


‘You’re Making Yourself Sick’: Ca. Walmart Shopper Rails Against Need for Masks 07/21/2020

A man filmed his tense encounter with fellow shoppers at a Walmart on July 19, which he said was sparked after he asked one of them why she entered the store in Martinez, California, without a mask.

The retail giant on July 15 announced a policy requiring customers to don masks while in-store. However, Walmart said the policy would not be enforced until July 20 to give it time to “inform customers and members of the changes, post signage and train associates on the new protocols.”

In the video shot by Brian Campbell-Miller, he is in a queue behind a woman and her two children, none of whom are wearing a mask. The woman tells Campbell-Miller “we would all be wearing the same mask if it mattered.”

The interaction gained the attention of two other women, neither of whom were wearing masks, who were sympathetic to the first woman’s position.

“Stay home if you’re so scared,” one remarks, moments before accusing Campbell-Miller of destroying “this country.” Another calls him “Antifa” and aims the word “brainwash” at him. Complete article


Woman arrested after causing ruckus over customers without masks at Kenner La. Walmart, police say 07/20/2020

Angered that some shoppers inside a Kenner Walmart were not wearing face masks, a 74-year-old woman became belligerent and accosted another shopper and a store manager before police hauled her out of the store in handcuffs when she refused to leave, Kenner police said.

Jo Boihem, of Waggaman, was arrested Friday and booked with disturbing the peace, remaining in a place after being forbidden and resisting an officer, said Lt. Michael Cunningham, a spokesman for the Kenner Police Department. Complete article


Big Lots hires Walmart exec as new chief merchant 07/20/2020

Columbus, Ohio – Big Lots is onboarding a new merchandising leader with experience in sourcing and private label development.

Jack Pestello has been appointed EVP, chief merchandising officer, effective July 27. His experience includes seven years in leadership roles at Walmart and over 25 years of global retail experience. Complete article


Walmart Foundation grant helps Central Texas Food Bank buy refrigerated truck 07/20/2020

Ogden man arrested for printing porn at Utah Walmart for 'the homies who were locked up' 07/20/2020

Mural marks three months since Black man killed in San Leandro Ca. Walmart 07/20/2020

Mostly masked: Walmart face-covering mandate in effect but unenforced 07/20/2020

Alaskans react to Walmart face masks requirements going into effect 07/20/2020

Walmart to close on Thanksgiving Day 07/21/2020

Walmart to bring 1,000 new jobs to Dorchester County SC with new distribution center 07/20/2020

Wal-Mart shoppers help cops catch Lady Lake Fla. man who had to be tasered 07/21/2020

Wal-Mart shoppers helped police apprehend a Lady Lake man who had to be tasered as he attempted to run from officers.

A police officer had been watching a red Jeep in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart in Leesburg and saw the Jeep back into a parked vehicle, according to an arrest report from the Fruitland Park Police Department. The officer stopped the Jeep and summoned a K-9 unit from the Leesburg Police Department. The dog alerted on the vehicle.

One of the passengers was identified as 29-year-old Joshua Atkins who was “shaking abnormally.” After Atkins was asked to empty his pockets he “placed a large quantity of cash” on the hood of the officer’s patrol vehicle.

“The money appeared to be broken up into small amounts for small transactions,” the officer wrote in the arrest report.

A search of the vehicle turned up a 9mm Smith & Wesson firearm, 14.6 grams of methamphetamine, 10 Alprazolam tablets, five amphetamine tablets, .4 grams of heroin, a digital scale and a clear glass pipe. Complete article


Video shows man coughing on Boiling Springs SC Walmart merchandise 07/21/2020

BOILING SPRINGS, S.C. (WSPA) — The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident in which a man appeared to deliberately cough on merchandise in the Boiling Springs Walmart.

Walmart confirmed the incident took place Sunday at its store, located at 4000 Highway 9 in Boiling Springs.

A spokeswoman for Walmart gave the following statement via email:
“It’s unfortunate that a person would behave this way in our store. We appreciate our customers who take the health and safety of others seriously.”
Complete article


Paramedics respond to fight over wearing face mask at Baton Rouge La. Walmart 07/21/2020

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - A man was injured after being punched by a woman during an argument over a face mask at a Baton Rouge Walmart.

Paramedics and sheriff’s office deputies were dispatched to the store on Burbank Drive early Tuesday afternoon (July 21).

Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office say a man was exiting the store when the man confronted the female employee about not wearing a face mask.

Just inside the store before the exit, the female store employee reportedly punched the man in his nose, causing it to bleed, deputies say. EBRSO officials say another female employee tried to restrain the woman who reportedly punched the man. Once paramedics arrived on the scene, the man refused treatment. The woman was issued a summons for battery, deputies say. Complete article


Man Faces Multiple Charges After Alleged Assault at Wyoming Walmart 07/21/2020

A 32-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly assaulting an employee at the Sheridan Walmart Monday afternoon.

According to information from the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, Cody Zack has been charged by the sheriff’s office for speeding, eluding and driving with a suspended driver's license and by the Sheridan Police Department for battery, eluding and careless driving.

According to the sheriff's office, sheriff’s deputies were notified around 3:45 p.m. Monday that police officers were pursuing a vehicle after investigating the assault at Walmart.

The pursuit led the police onto East Fifth Street and into the county where they discontinued the pursuit. Deputies arrived in the area a short time later and began patrolling Wyarno Road. They spotted the vehicle traveling east on the road at a high rate of speed.

A deputy tried to stop the vehicle, and the driver turned around and drove west toward Sheridan, again at a high rate of speed. A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper successfully deflated two tires on the suspect vehicle using spike strips, but pursuit continued west on Fifth Street to the railroad tracks, which were blocked by a train.

The suspect then turned back east until coming to a stop at the Rock Stop.

The suspect refused to exit the vehicle and held a knife at his own throat. Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers and county sheriff’s deputies eventually talked the suspect into dropping the knife, and after more conversation, he exited the vehicle and was arrested without further incident. Complete article


Utah woman assaulted by fellow Walmart shopper for not wearing mask, police say 07/20/2020

PARK CITY, Utah – A woman was allegedly assaulted and injured by a fellow shopper in a Park City Walmart for not wearing a mask, according to the Summit County Sheriff’s Office.

Before you go in, masks need to go on. For Walmart and a number of other nationwide chains, this is the new requirement for shoppers.

However, in places like Salt Lake and Summit County, where mask mandates have been put into place, this is the way it has been for nearly a month. Complete article


Why is Walmart participating in Florida’s electric regulatory process? 07/22/2020

The complexities of Florida’s electric regulatory process are usually taken on only by the state’s power companies. But here’s a surprising participant:

Walmart.

Over the past three years, Walmart has weighed in on an increasing number of issues before the Florida Public Service Commission. Some of the uptick is because of timing — some issues, such as energy efficiency goals, are scheduled to come up once every five years. Complete article


State police looking for alleged shoplifting trio spotted on Potsdam NY Walmart cameras 07/20/2020

VIDEO: Florida woman tries to steal giant TV from Walmart 07/21/2020

Maine CDC confirms COVID-19 outbreak at Presque Isle Walmart 07/21/2020

Naugatuck Conn. man arrested for allegedly leaving dog in hot car in Walmart parking lot 07/21/2020

‘Stay calm’: Walmart trains staff how to deal with the maskless 07/21/2020

Black man arrested after paying for bike at Pa. Walmart, sparking protest 07/22/2020

Protestors are planning to converge on a Pennsylvania police department Wednesday after the arrest of a black man inside a local Walmart — even though he had paid for a bicycle for his son and had a receipt.

Stanley Gracius, 37, was confronted by two cops inside the Wyomissing store on Monday and arrested while repeatedly asking why he was being taken into custody and was later Tased and hog-tied, according to the Reading Eagle.

“I didn’t do nothing wrong. Why are you arresting me?” Gracius is heard saying on video of the bust posted on Facebook. “I paid. Everybody saw that, right? I had a receipt. So why are the cops doing this to me? What did I do wrong? Somebody, please tell me what I did wrong.”

A Walmart store manager called police after Gracius was allegedly seen riding the bicycle in the store, playing loud music and shouting profanities, the outlet reported. When police arrived, he was paying for the bike. Complete article

Berks County DA releases surveillance video of Wyomissing Walmart arrest and second protest held [VIDEO] 07/2/2020 Jose Garcia of Reading is among the protesters outside Walmart, near State Hill Road in Wyomissing, on Thursday. The protest was the second in response to the arrest of Stanley Gracius at the Walmart on Monday. The demonstration was held hours after the Berks County district attorney released video of Gracius and why police were called.

Protest rumors prompt Walmart in Wyomissing to temporarily close 07/25/2020

Hearing postponed for man whose arrest at Wyomissing Walmart led to protests 07/27/2020


Decatur Alabama Walmart closes following store fire 07/22/2020

DECATUR, Ala. (WAFF) - A Decatur Walmart is closed indefinitely after a fire left heavy damage behind.

Decatur fire officials say the call at the Spring Avenue store came in around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The store was evacuated. Crews ensured the fire was out upon their arrival.

The fire was confined to one section of the store. The extent of the fire damage has not yet been determined, nor when Walmart will reopen for business. Complete article

Decatur police looking for Walmart arson suspect 07/27/2020


Walmart To Launch Healthcare ‘Super Centers’ In Lucrative Florida Market 07/22/2020

Walmart disclosed plans Wednesday to open more “Walmart Health” centers in the lucrative Florida market beginning next year as the retail giant looks to expand low cost healthcare services to tens of thousands of its customers.

Like the handful of healthcare services “super centers” Walmart has opened in the last year in Arkansas and Georgia, the Florida facilities will feature an array of primary medical services, dental care, and behavioral health services as part of a new model being replicated into other markets.

It’s a huge market opportunity for Walmart, which is already critical for the global retail giant. Florida is home to the second highest number of Walmart stores in the country, serving customers at more than 380 retail stores and employing more than 106,000 people, Walmart said. Complete article


Mask Meltdown: Some Iowans Rebel Over Walmart Mandate 07/20/2020

Walmart employee says consider this before getting irate with workers over COVID-19 rules 07/22/2020

Leesburg woman nabbed after being accused of ripping off Summerfield Fla. Wal-Mart 07/22/2020

Walmart permanently closing its only store in Princeton NJ 07/22/2020

Denver police need help identifying suspects in Montbello Colorado Walmart robbery 07/22/2020

‘Mask Off Remix’ Mocks ‘Karens’ For Refusing To Wear Masks In Walmart, Costco 07/22/2020

Murfreesboro Tenn. police: Rockvale Middle teacher arrested after exposing genitals in Walmart 07/21/2020

Keeping the change? Mass. Walmart customer denied change back 07/23/2020

A national coin shortage has some retailers asking customers to pay with credit or debit cards, or use exact change if possible.

But one local woman says her Walmart cashier took it a step further and refused to give her change, with no advanced warning.

When Sheryl Jacob stopped by the Walmart in Framingham on her lunch break Monday, she picked up a small snack and wasn't thinking about the national coin shortage.

"(The cashier) said 'That will be $2.' And I said, 'OK.' And I handed her $2. Well, I didn't have any idea how much the things cost so I just gave her the money, and didn't think twice about it," Jacob said.

But then Jacob happened to glance at her receipt. It showed the bag of Cheetos and a candy bar she purchased but also a third item marked "donation" for 63 cents, which rounded up what should have been a $1.37 purchase to $2.

"I went over and I asked her and she said, 'Well, we don't give change,'" Jacob said. "It just came as a shock to me that they would just take my money without saying anything." Complete article

Walmart Marketplace Warns Sellers to Expect More Returns 07/24/2020


PETA protesting Ill. Walmart, wants the company to cut ties with Ohio company 07/23/2020

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Members of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) protested outside of a Peoria Walmart demanding the store terminate its relationship with an Ohio company.

Seven members of the animal rights group, including one clad in a chicken suit, held picket signs Thursday afternoon outside of the location on Allen Road.

Jonathan Horn, a PETA campaigner, said the organization recently discovered Trillium Farms Holdings abusing animals and killing animals. He said the company supplies Walmart with eggs and PETA wants Walmart to sever those ties.

“A recent PETA investigation into a massive filthy factory that supplies eggs to Walmart’s Great Value brand showed workers violently handling animals,” Horn said. “They were cramming them into tiny kill boxes and gassing them with carbon dioxide.” Complete article

‘Debeaked Chicken’ to ‘Peck’ Allentown Walmart Over Filthy, Cruel Egg Supplier 07/24/2020 

On Saturday, a “debeaked chicken” will lead PETA supporters in a spirited protest outside a local Walmart to urge the company to reconsider its relationship with supplier Trillium Farm Holdings, whose eggs Walmart sells under its Great Value brand.

The protest comes after a PETA undercover investigation of one of Trillium’s farms in Ohio revealed widespread, severe abuse of laying hens. Protesters will hold signs proclaiming, “Hens Crammed in With Rotting Corpses” and “Gassed. Decapitated. Left for Dead,” along with images from the investigation.


Patient data exposed after Walmart pharmacy break-ins 07/23/2020

Walmart is notifying patients who use its pharmacy services about recent data incidents that exposed their private information.

Some Walmart pharmacies were recently affected by "widespread civil unrest," Will Center, director of health and wellness HIPAA compliance at Walmart, wrote in a letter to individuals affected by the breach. Walmart did not release the number of people who received these letters.

During the incidents, individuals broke into Walmart's secured pharmacies by breaking physical barriers in the store and stole medications and other materials, which included patient information printed on packages, labels and other related documents. Patient data exposed during the incidents included names, addresses, phone numbers, medication names and strengths, prescription numbers and names, and fill dates.

"We sent this letter out of an abundance of caution. The intruders primarily stole prescriptions ready for pickup, which are medications labeled with patient name and medication information," Walmart said in a July 23 emailed statement to Becker's. "It is our understanding these intruders were not targeting medical paperwork, electronic devices, data or patient files." Complete article


Walmart to open at least six more health clinics in greater Atlanta area by end of 2020 as part of bigger health-care push 07/23/2020

Walmart will open at least six additional Walmart Health clinics in the greater Atlanta area by the end of 2020, the retail giant confirmed to CNBC.

The news comes on the heels of its announcement this week that it will enter the Florida market next year, starting with the Jacksonville area. And it said in June it will open two clinics in the Chicago area by end of year.

That would bring its total clinics that offer primary care, dental exams and other medical services to at least 13 by year end. It already has four Walmart Health clinics: Three in Georgia and one in Springdale, Ark., close to Walmart’s Bentonville headquarters.

Walmart is already the largest private sector employer and the largest grocer in the U.S., but it’s looking to become a major health-care player, too. Starting last fall, it opened Walmart Health clinics that offer expansive services, including annual checkups, X-rays, hearing services and mental health counseling. It already has pharmacies and optical centers at many of its stores. Complete article


No spectators allowed at Walmart NW Arkansas Championship 07/23/2020

Retailers Target, Kroger, Walmart team up to replace plastic shopping bags 07/23/2020

Maine CDC investigating construction workers’ link to Presque Isle Walmart outbreak 07/23/2020

Feds say any delay in accused El Paso Tx. Walmart shooter's prosecution would be 'miscarriage of justice' 07/23/2020

SC man coughed on products at Walmart while claiming he had COVID-19, warrant says 07/24/2020

BOILING SPRINGS, S.C. (WYFF) - A Spartanburg man has been arrested after he coughed on merchandise at an area Walmart while “claiming he could or did have COVID-19,” according to an arrest warrant.

Kyle Christopher Arendell is charged with aggravated breach of peace and malicious injury to property.

The arrest warrant said that Arendell "did willfully, unlawfully and maliciously do damage value $2,000 or less to the personal property of the victim."

It happened at the Boiling Springs Walmart on Sunday, authorities said. Complete article


Military Vet Tosses Dead Dog Out the Window at Ca. Walmart 07/24/2020

Reports claimed the dog had died after being left in the hot truck; but deputies believe it had been dead for "quite some time".

A military vet was confronted in a California Walmart parking lot after he reportedly tossed a dead dog out the window with his trash.

A couple who claimed to have witnessed it immediately began recording after confronting the driver.

The video shows his pickup truck, parked in the no parking area separating disabled spaces, with the deceased pet lying on the ground beside it. Complete article


Health district: Wash. Walmart failed to report staff COVID-19 cases 07/24/2020

WENATCHEE — The Wenatchee Walmart Supercenter apparently did not comply with a requirement in Gov. Jay Inslee’s emergency orders, which demands that all employers report two or more COVID-19 infections among workers within 24 hours.

The store, at 2000 N. Wenatchee Avenue, closed to customers Thursday afternoon after 21 infections among staff became public. Walmart officials said it would reopen Saturday after extensive cleaning.

But while rising COVID-19 cases were common knowledge among store employees for more than a week, the Chelan-Douglas Health District said today the store did not step forward to report the infections, as required under Gov. Jay Inslee’s public health orders relating to the pandemic. Complete article


Meet the New C.D.C. Director: Walmart 07/24/2020

Why are big corporations requiring masks when many states still do not?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention opened branch offices in Bentonville, Ark., and Seattle this month. Not officially. But with the president trying to distance himself from responsibility for the coronavirus crisis, and Southern governors amplifying the damage with their flawed reopening strategies, the nation’s retailers have become the first line of defense against the pandemic.

From the headquarters of Walmart (which includes Sam’s Club) and Starbucks came the directive that all customers must wear masks. The conservative Southeasterner and liberal Northwesterner were followed by other national retailers, including Kohl’s, CVS, Walgreens, Publix and Target. Wearing a mask is a “simple step everyone can take for their safety and the safety of others in our facilities,” said Dacona Smith and Lance de la Rosa, the chief operating officers of Walmart U.S. and Sam’s Club, on the corporate website. Complete article


Police Arrested Ind. Walmart Employee After Arriving To Work Drunk 07/23/2020

Walmart Closing Store In Jay, Okla. Community In Shock 07/23/2020

Report: Walmart, other stores to allow people refusing masks to shop out of concern for employees 07/24/2020

Galesburg woman arrested for theft at Ill. Walmart 07/24/2020

Swastika-wearing pair cited for disturbance at Marshall Walmart 07/25/2020

At the store's request, the couple was issued a notice of trespass by Marshall PD.

MARSHALL, Minn. — Walmart officials have confirmed a store in Marshall, Minnesota was the scene of an incident Saturday when two individuals entered their store wearing swastika masks.

The 59-year-old man and a 64-year-old woman confronted another group of shoppers who recorded the incident on their phone. Video on social media subsequently went viral. Complete article


Amarillo Tx. Police make arrest at Walmart, reviewing use of force 07/26/2020

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Amarillo Police Department said officers used force to arrest a subject at Walmart on Saturday, July 25, after they said the subject refused to show his hands from under his body and continued to try and get away.

APD said officers responded to the WalMart at 3700 E. IH40 on a disturbance in the parking lot shortly after 8 p.m.

According to APD, the officers that arrived were told the subject, a man, approached a person in a car, demanded money and then punched out a window of the car after being refused.

The victim then chased the suspect through the parking lot, according to the APD. Officials said the first officer who arrived learned what happened and attempted to arrest the suspect, who was still being pursued by the victim.

Police said the suspect jumped into the bed of a moving pickup while trying to evade the pursuing officer. APD said the officer attempted to arrest the suspect, who refused and then jumped on the roof of the pickup, went over the hood, and took off running again. Complete article


SUV catches fire in Idaho Walmart parking lot 07/25/2020

AMMON — An SUV caught fire in the parking lot of Walmart on Hitt Road Saturday evening.

It’s not clear what started the blaze, but witnesses say a silver Lincoln Navigator was parked at about 8:10 p.m. when it started to smoke. Not long after the front of the SUV burst into flame, destroying the front of the vehicle and damaging another nearby vehicle.

Witnesses say no one was in the vehicle at the time.

The Ammon Fire Department responded to the blaze and quickly put out the fire. An Idaho Falls ambulance was dispatched to the scene, but didn’t transport anyone. No injures were reported. Complete article


Bagged salads sold under store brands including Walmart, Aldi, ShopRite recalled after more than 600 get sick 07/26/2020

Bagged salads mixes sold under multiple store brand names including Walmart, Aldi and ShopRite been recalled in 31 states after more than 600 people have been sickened by parasites in 11 of those states, according to the federal Food and Drug Administration.

The salads made by Fresh Express, which is based in Illinois, are contaminated with Cyclospora, a parasite that can cause an intestinal illness after being ingested.

The outbreak has affected 641 people in 11 states, with no cases reported in New Jersey, since the first FDA alert was issued in June. Thirty-seven people have been hospitalized, and there are no reported deaths, the FDA said. Complete article


Fort Myers Fla. Walmart location closes temporarily to 'sanitize' 07/25/2020

Target joins Walmart in staying closed for Thanksgiving this year 07/27/2020

Meet the Wal-Mart manager who's become a hometown hero for the Fulshear Tx. community 07/26/2020

State Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Two Suspects Accused Of Stealing From Pa. Walmart 07/27/2020

Police arrest suspect after reported shooting incident at Walmart in Taylor Ariz. 07/27/2020

TUCSON, Ariz. (KOLD News 13) - Police in Taylor say they have a suspect in custody and are still investigating an incident at the Walmart there. Taylor is in Navajo County, near Snowflake.

A report in AzFamily called the incident an active shooter situation.

A spokesman for the Snowflake-Taylor Police Depart said the situation started around 5 a.m., before the story opened on Monday, July 27. A later post to the police department’s Facebook page said the suspect is in custody and no injuries were reported. Complete article

Suspect in custody after active shooter situation at Walmart in Taylor 07/27/2020


Walmart, Target Announce New Recalls For Potentially Toxic Hand Sanitizers Sold In Stores 07/27/2020

WEYMOUTH (CBS) — Walmart and Target listed new recalls for potentially toxic hand sanitizers on their websites late last week. The FDA’s recall list of hand sanitizers that may contain methanol, which can be toxic when absorbed into the skin or ingested, has grown to 77 entries.

Walmart released a list of stores nationwide that sold the recalled Scent Theory hand sanitizer, and the company’s Weymouth location makes the list. Meanwhile, Target says the recalled Born Basic hand sanitizer was sold at Target stores and on Target.com.

The FDA says “substantial methanol exposure” can cause nausea, vomiting, headache and sometimes cause permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Complete article


Toddler, left in running minivan as mom shops at Pa. Walmart, gets out, police say 07/27/2020

Woman accused in Kansas Walmart coronavirus prank arrested for squatting in ice chest 07/27/2020

POLICE RELEASE SURVEILLANCE PHOTOS OF PA. WALMART THEFT SUSPECTS 07/27/2020

Police search for identities of Pa. Walmart, fraud suspects 07/27/2020

Police: No active shooter at Valdosta Ga. Walmart, patrols increased in area 07/28/2020

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) — The Valdosta Police Department is increasing patrols near the Walmart on Inner Perimeter Road after receiving numerous, unsubstantiated reports of an active shooter.

On Tuesday, the Lowndes County, GA 911 Center and Valdosta Police Department received numerous calls and Facebook messages reporting an active shooter incident at Walmart located on Inner Perimeter Road.

VPD personnel immediately responded and learned that no shooting had occurred and everyone was safe. Ultimately, the reports were found to be unsubstantiated.

"The Valdosta Police Department takes all reports of threats seriously and will continue to extra patrol the area," police wrote in a press release. Complete article


"I'm gonna spit in your face": Man arrested after refusing to wear mask at NM Walmart 07/29/2020

LAS CRUCES, NM (KFOX14/CBS4) — A man was arrested at a Las Cruces Walmart after allegedly refusing to wear a mask and spitting on several officers as he was being escorted away.

Around 1:44 p.m. on July 12, a Walmart employee told a Las Cruces Police Department officer working overtime at the store at 1550 S. Valley Drive that a man had entered the store and was refusing to wear a mask, according to a police report.

The man, identified as Charles Madrid III, was allegedly asked if he had a medical condition or other reason he could not wear a mask. Madrid allegedly told Walmart employees he wasn’t going to wear a mask and to call the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office because he would be gone before deputies arrived.

Store employees pointed Madrid out to the officer as he entered the bathroom. The officer waited for Madrid to leave the bathroom and when the man come out and saw the officer, he allegedly started cussing at him and said, “I’m not gonna wear a (expletive) mask.” ........

In an officer’s lapel video from incident, Madrid is heard saying, “You’re gonna have to drag me out, bro. I’m sick. I’ve got the (expletive) virus. I’m gonna spit in your face." Complete article


Police searching for woman who robbed Dumfries Va. Walmart 07/27/2020

Police are searching for a woman who robbed a cashier at the Walmart at 17041 Jefferson Davis Highway outside Dumfries on Sunday evening.

Officers were called to the store at 6:12 p.m after a woman presented a cashier a note demanding money and indicating she was carrying a firearm, police said in a news release. The woman fled the parking lot in a silver Ford or Mercury wagon with unknown Virginia temporary tags.

The culprit was black, about 30 to 40 years old, about 200 pounds, with black, shoulder-length dreadlocks. she was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, black leggings with a circular design and white sneakers. Complete article


Wisc. Walmart Distribution Center Staffer Told to Return to Work Despite Testing POSITIVE for COVID-19 07/28/2020

Employees at a Walmart Distribution Center in Wisconsin are outraged after a coworker returned to work after telling human resources he had tested positive for coronavirus, Your Content has exclusively learned.

The employee — who spoke only under the condition of anonymity — told Your Content that her colleague was instructed to get tested for the disease after his nurse girlfriend tested positive.

“A coworker got sent home on mandated quarantine last Tuesday because his girlfriend, who is a nurse, tested positive for COVID,” dished the insider, who works at the Beaver Dam Walmart Distribution Center.

“His results came back Friday and they were positive. He’s BACK AT WORK TODAY. We had a full conversation this morning and I thought nothing of it because he was back so soon, so I figured it came back negative.

“I’m livid. People don’t have the common sense to stay home when you have the virus?! Not to mention why did HR allow him back already?!” Complete article


Walmart, Kroger bottle their own milk and shake up American dairy industry 07/28/2020

Supermarket chains aim to price the staple as low as possible to draw in shoppers, squeezing old-line companies with premium brands

Americans' thirst for cheap milk -- and grocers' rush to provide it -- are remaking the centuries-old dairy industry.

When supermarket shoppers reach for white gallon jugs these days, most of the time they grab a low-priced store brand. To expand those offerings, major grocery retailers, including Kroger Co., Walmart Inc. and Albertsons Cos., have built their own milk-bottling plants.

Grocers' move into the bottling business is threatening some of the biggest operators in the $40 billion U.S. milk industry, the purveyors of national brands. Dean Foods Co., which until last year was the largest U.S. milk processor by sales, and Borden Dairy Co., another big producer, were sold this year after filing for bankruptcy in November and January. Executives of both had blamed some of their struggles on grocers' focus on cheap milk, often used as a loss leader. Complete article


Skip Scanners at Fla. Walmart Caught 07/28/2020

Schuyler man indicted on attempted murder charge after Geneseo NY Walmart stabbing in June 07/2/2020

Walmart rolls out new 'Ask Sam' tool to store employees to help shoppers find products, prices 07/29/2020

Two wanted after bank card stolen from car, used at Va. Walmart: police 07/28/2020

Waverly Ohio Police investigating incident of man in women's restroom at Walmart 07/28/2020

Police: $2,000 in jewelry reported stolen from Keene NH Walmart 07/28/2020

Jacksonville NC PD seek suspect in Walmart fraud 07/29/2020

Walmarts To Reopen In Auburn Gresham, Kenwood, Hermosa, Chicago Ill. 07/29/2020

Suspects wanted for buying almost $3,000-worth of items from Tx. Walmart using stolen credit card 07/29/2020

TEMPLE, TX — Two people are wanted for allegedly using a stolen credit card to purchase almost $3,000-worth of items from Walmart.

The items totaled to approximately $2,990.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Temple Police Department at (254) 298-5500. Complete article


Woman in Ga. Walmart Says, 'I Hope You All Die' to Children Not Wearing Masks 07/30/2020

A woman in a Walmart in Gainesville, Georgia, berated a mother and her children for not wearing face coverings inside the retailer, a video circulating on social media shows.

The video, which went viral Wednesday, captures an older woman with a face mask confronting a mother and her three children, who were all maskless, inside a Gainesville Walmart on July 20.
This woman literally looks into these children’s eyes and says, “I hope you all die.”

I’m at a loss for words.🥺

As the video begins, the two women are seen arguing about whether children under a certain age are required to wear masks. While there is no mask mandate for the entire state of Georgia, several localities have issued their own requirements. Atlanta officials, for example, have stated that children under the age of 10 do not need to wear one. Complete article


Walmart laying off workers as part of "re-organization" 07/30/2020

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart is eliminating jobs as part of what it calls "re-organization."

40/29 News obtained a letter Walmart sent to an employee stating that their job will be permanently eliminated.

The letter informed the employee they will be allowed to apply for other jobs within the company and offers the assistance of a job coach.

The employee asked 40/29 that they not be identified, concerned that speaking with the media may affect their severance pay. Complete article


Women accused of underpaying twice at Walmart self-checkout in Winter Haven Fla. 07/29/2020

53-year-old woman jailed after allegedly targeting Summerfield Fla. Wal-Mart 07/30/2020

COVID-19 outbreak linked to Jacksonville Il.. Walmart 07/30/2020

El Paso, Tx. grieving after the Walmart massacre targeting Latinos, now battles coronavirus 07/30/2020

Ex-Walmart Driver Lacks Claim Over Breathing Machine Requirement 07/30/2020 A Walmart Inc. driver who claimed he was constructively discharged when the company required him to wear a breathing machine at night after he was diagnosed with sleep apnea can’t sue for retaliation or violation of Ohio public policy, the Sixth Circuit ruled Thursday.

Police: Puppy dies after left in hot car outside Slidell La. Walmart 07/30/2020

St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office Seeking Identity of Theft Suspect using the self-checkout register at Md. Walmart 07/31/2020

Man cited for refusing to wear a mask at Albuquerque NM Walmart Neighborhood Market 07/2/2020

Lafayette La. Police looking for Walmart theft suspects 07/30/2020

NJ PD Blotter: Infinity Vehicle Stolen, 'FBI' Caller Asks for Walmart Gift Cards 07/30/2020

Jacksonville NC PD seek suspect in Walmart fraud 07/29/2020

At least two Chelan Wash. Walmart employees test positive for COVID-19 07/29/2020

Who should prosecute the El Paso Tx. Walmart shooting suspect? Local or federal prosecutors 07/31/2020

Walmart robbery suspect arrested in Prince William County Va. 07/31/2020

A Dumfries man is now in police custody and charged with robbery following a two-month search.

The suspect was found at his home and taken into custody without a struggle on Tuesday, July 28. Banks was involved in a robbery at a Walmart at 17401 Jefferson Davis Highway near Dumfries, and were on the run until now, police said.

The victim, a 20-year-old man, told the police that he was forced to get money for an acquaintance after refusing to participate in a scam.

The two men met at Walmart after the suspect threatened to harm the victim, according to police. When the two met, the suspect got into the victim’s vehicle and threatened, then forced him to drive to an ATM and withdraw money, police said.

The suspect then told the victim to go into a Walmart and obtain money orders. The victim and the suspect argued in the parking lot and as it escalated, the suspect hit the victim, according to police. Complete article


Vancouver Canada police sued over alleged beating of Indigenous man outside Walmart store 07/31/2020

An Indigenous man and his mother have filed a lawsuit alleging that the Vancouver police used excessive force in responding to an incident outside a Walmart store in east Vancouver last year.

Shane Robertson, 39, and his mom, Margaret Deneault, 61, say that on May 12, 2019, they, along with Deneault’s niece and Robertson’s eight-year-old son, went to the Walmart on Grandview Highway to buy patio furniture and food to celebrate Mother’s Day.

They say that after shopping for about 45 minutes, they paid for their items and began to leave the store, but a security guard confronted Robertson and accused him of theft without checking for proof of purchase.

Robertson, who was on disability insurance as a result of a traumatic brain injury, told the security guard, only identified in the lawsuit as Julian Doe, that they had paid for their items and proceeded to leave the store, says the notice of civil claim filed in B.C. Supreme Court.

“Julian Doe had no basis to suspect that the plaintiffs had committed theft or any other criminal activity,” it says. “Julian Doe targeted the plaintiffs without reasonable suspicion and was ostensibly motivated to stop and harass Robertson because of his race and physical appearance.”

Police were called to the scene and, without lawful cause, officers tackled Robertson and restrained him by forcefully putting their knees on the back of his head, neck and legs before repeatedly punching him, says the lawsuit.

Robertson says he suffered a concussion, broken ribs, bruising, cuts, sprains and other soft-tissue damage. Complete article


Woman arrested in fight over social distancing at Colorado Springs Walmart 07/31/2020

An argument over social distancing Friday led to a fistfight in a Colorado Springs Walmart between two women, one of whom was arrested for assault, police said.

The fight started, police said, when one of the women complained that the other was not staying 6 feet away, the distance health experts recommend to keep from catching or spreading the potentially fatal coronavirus.

The argument escalated, resulting in the first woman allegedly throwing the other to the floor in the store at 3201 East Platte Ave. Complete article


Woman said 'difficult time' led her to embezzle from Walmart 07/31/2020

ENID, Okla. — A 48-year-old Enid woman was arraigned this week on a felony charge of embezzlement that accuses her of taking more than $1,000 from her employer earlier this year.

Elisabeth Diane Swanstrom appeared Thursday, July 30, 2020, in district court for arraignment on the charge, which is punishable by up to two years imprisonment, up to a year in county jail, by a fine of up to $5,000 and restitution. She appeared free on $1,440 bond and was ordered to return to court Aug. 24 for a bond appearance.

According to an affidavit filed in the case, Enid Police Department Officer Tom Rhyne responded July 27 to Walmart Supercenter, 5505 W. Garriott, to a report of a theft. .......

The manager provided Rhyne with a statement prepared by Swanstrom, in which she admits to taking the money when she was going through "a difficult time," according to the affidavit. Swanstrom wrote her husband had been fired, and she was struggling to pay bills.

"I do apologize and am sorry," Swanstrom wrote. "I feel and felt bad at the time but also felt no other choice at (the) time." Complete article


Walmart Not The Haven For RV Parking It Once Was 07/31/2020

(CNN) — Walmart is known for its mammoth superstores that sell everything from groceries to treadmills. For thousands of RV travelers, though, its stores are appealing for a different reason: Spacious parking lots where people can relax and stay overnight for free.

The company has allowed overnight parking for RVers in many of its 4,700 US lots going back to the days of founder Sam Walton in the mid-twentieth century. Even RV enthusiasts Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and his wife, conservative activist Ginni Thomas, have been known to stay at Walmart.

But parking at Walmart is getting harder to find. In 2010, about 78% of Walmart stores allowed overnight RV parking. Now, it’s close to 58%, according to Jim O’Briant, who runs OvernightRVParking.com, a website that tracks more than 14,000 free RV parking locations in the United States and Canada.

This presents a problem for scores of self-proclaimed nomads just looking for a place to settle after dark. “RVers looking for a place to park overnight for one night will need to find other places,” O’Briant said. Complete article


22-year-old man arrested for threatening El Paso Walmart employee at Gateway West store 07/3/2020

Kansas Drive-in-turned-Walmart goes full circle, plans to open drive-in theater 07/31/2020



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