Friday, January 1, 2021

Walmart Crime Report December 2020



Walmart had at least eighteen shootings in December 2020, which is close to the previous record of twenty in one month set a couple years ago. Three of those were fatal, including one that was an officer involved shooting, killing a suspect who had previously driven her car through Walmart after she was involved in a shooting, then was killed by police. There were also three bodies found on the premises, and one other person killed in an accident, bringing the total of dead to at least seven. In addition to the shootings and deaths last month there were fifteen shootings and six deaths in January; eighteen shootings and fifteen deaths in February; seven shootings and four deaths in March; eleven shootings and nineteen deaths in April; eleven shootings and nine deaths in May; eleven shootings and ten deaths in June; eight shootings and three deaths in July; nine shootings and thirteen deaths in August; eleven shootings and six deaths in September; thirteen shootings and eight deaths in October; and nine shootings and seven deaths in November. This brings the total for 2020 to at least one-hundred-and-forty-one shootings and one-hundred-and-seven deaths, which is the second highest number of shootings ever, beat only by 2019, which had the mass shooting in El Paso.

Most of the non-fatal shootings resulted in at least one injury, along with at least one non-fatal injury in one of the double shootings that was fatal. There were almost as many, if not more other gun related crimes without shootings, including many armed robberies, at least one gun stolen from Walmart and at least two people threatening to commit mass shootings, one which was investigated by a SWAT team and a false claim of an "active shooter."

There was a report of a kidnapping that happened three months ago that was finally reported this month. Even though the kidnapper punched the mother and kidnapped both her and a baby in front of witnesses there was little if any media coverage of it when it happened. This strongly implies that many more major crimes may be ignored by mainstream media.

There were at least three stampedes, brawls or fights over a Playstation 5, in three different states, which was out of stock in at least two of these cases. This is semi-routine around the holidays, yet there's never any discussion about how to improve supply, or stop advertising and hyping things they can't keep in stock. Instead they routinely put all the blame on the consumers, even though by now there's plenty of evidence indicating that excessive hype and ads are a major contributing factor.

There were several other fights, unrelated to Playstation 5, including an assault on a Salvation Army bell ringer, two employees, one that was seventy years old, and another fight that was caught on video, which, of course, went viral. Walmart continues to ignore the root causes of their high crime problems; however, that hasn't stopped them from putting "Crime-fighting kiosks" in their stores, showing pictures of mostly petty criminals, while much worse white collar crime is uninvestigated.

Walmart's computers were impacted by the Christmas bombing in Nashville, even though they weren't involved with it; however, they routinely get many bomb threats every month, and even though everything is caught on camera at Walmart, it may be a matter of time before someone leaves a tape saying, If you hear this, evacuate now.”



Walmart has been accused of forcing employees back to work without proper precautions for the pandemic; and they continue having more cases where people intentionally cough on others to scare them, creating a new routine crime. An off-duty cop was arrested after refusing to wear a mask and trying to intimidate someone that asked him to wear a mask, and was suspended pending an investigation. They may be more accountable for things like this or shoplifting than they are for shooting unarmed people.

In addition to the pedestrian killed in an accident there were at least three vehicles stolen or retrieved at Walmart, and a couple more major crashes, which is lower than usual, although there may be more that weren't widely reported. There were also at least two vehicles that caught fire, one as a result of a crash, another as a result of arson. There were at least two more arsons inside stores as well. Walmart had at least one incident with a man threatening people with a machete, and another person stealing knifes. In many cases, when robbers commit armed robbery, they just steal their weapons from Walmart, which appears quite easy to do, even if they rarely get away with it since they're on camera.

Walmart had several purse snatchings, assaults on employees, sexual assaults, several catalytic converters stolen from cars parked at their stores, and numerous other assaults, as well as the usually daily shoplifting's across the country that are hardly newsworthy.

Another study has come out showing that taxpayers are subsidizing Walmart and other oligarchs “starvation wages.” Many people may forget that Walmart didn't dominate the market as a result of doing a good job competing with other stores, but as a result of negotiations with politicians to give them unfair advantages, which led to this situation, unless they get an occasional reminder, which the media doesn't provide. The pandemic is only making this worse, driving many small businesses out of business, while Walmart profits went through the roof. Some of these small business owners are protesting to their government, without getting any help, while Walmart get more subsidies.

Walmart had more recalls for gas stoves because of a fire hazard and kids toys that moved on their own and may have endangered people, although they weren't widely reported so most people with dangerous products subject to recall almost never know about it.

Walmart has also been sued by the Federal government for their part in the opioid crisis; and at the same time they're trying to increase their influence on health care industries. Yet there's little or no consideration of how much they should be trusted with health care, considering their track record with just about everything else.

They also caught a man masturbating in the women's rest room, which isn't the first time this has happened.

One unnamed employee may be in a lot of trouble, assuming he still has his job, after he called Josh Hawley a ‘Sore Loser’ on Twitter, supposedly because he accidentally posted on the company account when he meant to post on his personal account. This was quickly deleted, of course, but it still resulted in calls to boycott them, and forced them to publicly apologize, which got far more media coverage than their recalls, of most of their crime problems.



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 December 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 resumes customer counting, addresses toilet paper shortages 12/01/2020

Walmart at Eastport Plaza Portland Oregon closed after coronavirus outbreak 12/02/2020

Southport NC Police looking for suspects involved in ‘criminal incident’ at Walmart 12/02/2020

Police arrest two at Hartselle Alabama Walmart 12/0/2020

Woman, 19, found dead inside car in Weatherford Tx. Walmart parking lot, authorities say 12/01/2020

A 19-year-old woman was found dead inside of a car in the parking lot of a Walmart in Weatherford on Monday afternoon, authorities said.

She was identified by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office as Alyssa Brooke Baltzell, of Springtown. Her cause of death was undetermined as of Tuesday afternoon.

There were signs inside the SUV that drugs could have played a factor in her death, Weatherford police said in a statement. Police didn’t say what those signs were. Complete article


Authorities search for man accused of flashing pistol at Tx. Walmart employees in The Woodlands 12/01/2020

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – Montgomery County deputies are searching for a man they said was seen on surveillance video stealing from a Walmart in The Woodlands and flashing a pistol at employees.

The robbery was reported on Nov. 19 at the Walmart located at 10001 Woodlands Parkway.

Deputies said the man entered the building and filled up a plastic tote with items and walked to the self-checkout. Deputies said the man scanned and paid for the tote but not the items inside and when he tried to walk out of the building, he was confronted by three employees. Complete article


Police search for suspect after rifle stolen from Sylvester Ga. Walmart 12/01/2020

SYLVESTER, Ga. (WALB) - The Sylvester Police Department (SPD) is on the hunt for a man police said stole a rifle from Walmart recently.

“We wanna bring him to justice, he’s a thief,” said SPD Investigator Lenny Davis.

Police said they received the call on Nov. 22, after employees noticed the gun was missing. However, the incident happened on Saturday, Nov. 21. Complete article


Car catches fire after minor two-vehicle crash outside Walmart in Woodstock Ill. 12/01/2020

A car caught fire after two vehicles crashed in a head-on collision outside Walmart in Woodstock Tuesday evening.

A driver was turning left into the Walmart parking lot at 1275 Lake Ave. and failed to yield, crashing into a car traveling westbound on Lake Avenue towards Route 47, Woodstock police Sgt. Joshua Rapacz said.

It was at this point that one of the vehicles caught fire, he said. Complete article


Walmart to lay off more than 1,200 in omnichannel reorganization 12/01/2020

Walmart will lay off 1,241 employees in Arkansas and New Jersey on Jan. 31, according to Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notifications filed with authorities in those states. The cuts are intended to bolster Walmart's omnichannel operations, according to a July memo in which the retailer internally announced layoffs were imminent.

"We are streamlining some roles so we can be more effective and efficient. At the same time, we are creating new roles, particularly in the supply chain, in our stores, and in other facilities which will open up new opportunities," said the memo from U.S. CEO John Furner and U.S. E-commerce CEO Marc Lore, obtained by Retail Dive. Affected employees can apply for other open positions within the company, according to the memo.

The affected employees were notified "four months ago," according to the Arkansas WARN notice, which said the layoffs will be permanent. "Those who take new roles at Walmart will receive one year of salary protection and their target bonus for the year. In the case of associates who do not assume a new role in the coming months, they will receive their target bonus for the year, transition benefits and severance, as eligible," a Walmart spokesperson said via email Monday. The spokesperson did not confirm if additional states were affected in time for publication. Complete article


Ossining Man Accused Of Shoplifting At NY Walmart 12/01/2020

Ashland Ky. Walmart Superstore to close until Dec. 4 12/02/2020

Documentary on El Paso Walmart mass shooting premieres in Las Vegas Friday 12/02/2020

Police looking for woman who used stolen credit card at Aurora Ind. Walmart 12/02/2020

Did twins leave Mich. Walmart lot to surveil Whitmer's home for terrorism? Attorneys spar. 12/02/2020

Man arrested after allegedly shooting at group of officers near Colorado Walmart 12/02/2020

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) - A man facing multiple counts of felony assault on an officer after allegedly shooting at a group of police standing outside a restaurant Wednesday night.

The Fountain Police Department says three of its officers were standing in the MOD Pizza parking lot off Venetucci near the Walmart when they heard several gunshots go off.

“Officers noticed a black truck slowly driving on Venetucci Boulevard headed towards South Academy Boulevard. As the truck passed by the parking lot of MOD Pizza, additional shots were fired in the direction of where the officers were standing,” a police department spokesperson said.

Law enforcement flooded the area in response, searching for the suspect and obtaining surveillance of the incident. A short time later, police say the same black truck tried to drive onto Fort Carson. It was immediately stopped by military police. Complete article


Man arrested months after mother, baby kidnapped from Fayette Ga. Walmart 12/03/2020

A 23-year-old man was arrested last week after he was accused of punching a woman in the face and kidnapping her and her baby from a Fayetteville Walmart.

Marcus Farmer-Crane was brought back to Fayette County last Thursday after he was picked up in another jurisdiction. He had been wanted on charges of kidnapping, simple battery, reckless conduct and third-degree cruelty to children in the Sept. 21 incident outside the store on Pavillion Parkway.

Fayetteville police described the incident as a domestic disturbance but did not say how Farmer-Crane was related to the mother or the baby.

According to police, several people inside Walmart saw a man punch the woman twice and snatch the child from a shopping cart. She ran after him in an attempt to get her baby back, the witnesses said. Complete article

Man punches woman, snatches baby, kidnaps both from Walmart, police say 12/02/2020


Man arrested after trailer burns in Missouri Walmart parking lot 12/03/2020

A 21-year-old man faces charges after he allegedly confessed to torching a box trailer in the parking lot of the West Plains Walmart. Jack Sergious Friel was arrested Monday in connection with the arson, according to the West Plains Police Department (WPPD).

Authorities received a report of a trailer on fire just before 12:30 a.m. and spoke to witnesses on scene, but were not able to determine how the fire started or who was involved, according to a news release from the WPPD. One witness reported seeing a person in a dark-colored hoodie approaching the trailer, but did not see the person enter the vehicle.

Shortly after 2 a.m., WPPD personnel returned to Walmart, after receiving a report that a man, later identified as Friel, said he started the fire in the trailer. Friel then allegedly repeated his claims of starting the fire to officers. Complete article


Laptop thief assaulted Walmart employee on his way out, cops say 12/03/2020

Police are looking for a man they say stole a laptop from a Lehigh Valley Pa. Walmart and assaulted a store employee as he fled.

Colonial Regional police were called a little before 3 p.m. Sunday for the incident at the Northampton Crossings shopping center store in Lower Nazareth Township, Deputy Chief James DePalma said.

The man stole a laptop and assaulted an employee before fleeing out of the lawn and garden entrance near Corriere Road, DePalma said. Complete article


Toddler, Infant Found 'Unconscious' In Walmart Lot: San Jacinto Ca. 12/02/2020

SAN JACINTO, CA — A homeless woman who allegedly left her two young children unattended in a running vehicle for more than two hours in a San Jacinto Walmart parking lot remained jailed Wednesday.

Sarah Casciato, 29, was arrested at 5:02 p.m. Monday after a citizen reported the incident in the lot at 1861 S. San Jacinto Ave.

According to the sheriff's department, deputies found a 1-year-old girl and 2-year-old boy "unconscious" in a black Toyota Solara.

"Deputies removed the children from the car, and fire personnel began performing life-saving measures. The children were taken to Hemet Valley Hospital via American Medical Response for advanced care," the sheriff's department reported. Complete article


Buffalo Bar Owner Hangs Fake Walmart Sign To Protest COVID-19 Restrictions 12/01/2020

With more than 100,000 views on TikTok, Brandon Carr, the owner of The Quarter in Buffalo, says his fake Walmart sign is a demonstration for state officials. "I have no actual intentions of defying and opening up for business, it’s just the simple fact of the matter that several days prior to Black Friday our numbers were red zone numbers but they didn't put us in the red zone because the state is bringing in so much money from sales tax on Black Friday,” said Carr.

Carr says his argument is that big chain stores like Walmart continue to remain open to crowds of people.

"People are crammed in an aisle touching shoulder to shoulder looking at toys and putting them back and someone else touches it, that's an absolute super spreader,” he said. Complete article


One Lubbock Tx. Walmart temporarily closed for cleaning 12/02/2020

Police: Man uses stolen debit card at Petersburg Va. Walmart 12/03/2020

Winona Minn. Police calls for Tuesday, Dec. 2: Walmart reports theft of $430 of merchandise in two incidents 12/02/2020

Two Charged with Retail Theft from Plano Ill. Walmart 12/02/2020

Cordele man arrested while picking up items bought from Ga. Walmart with stolen CC info 12/03/2020

Florence SC police search for subjects after attempted robbery at Walmart 12/03/2020

FLORENCE, S.C. (WBTW) — Florence police are searching for subjects after an attempted robbery Thursday at Walmart.

A female presented a note and demanded money at the Walmart on Beltline Drive around 8:53 a.m., according to police. The female left without anything.

Police said no one was injured and a gun was not seen. The female and another subject left in a dark-colored Toyota. Police believe the female has been involved in other robberies in the Florence and Darlington Areas.

Brandt told News13 the woman is also wanted in connection with a robbery a half hour later at Food Lion in Darlington. She’s seen on security footage wearing the same outfit and leaving in a car that matches the description from the Walmart incident. Complete article


Toy Company Huffy Recalls 5,000 Kids Toys Sold At Walmart After Reports That Vehicle Moves On Its Own 12/03/2020

More than 5,000 battery-powered, ride-on Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) toys that are exclusively sold at Walmart were recalled Wednesday, The Miami Herald reported.

Huffy, the company that makes the toys, received 36 different reports alleging that the two-seat UTVs unexpectedly move when attempting to connect the battery after charging, according to The Miami Herald.

While nobody was reportedly hurt in any of the 36 complaints, officials are worried that it could happen in the future. Complete article


A dog was missing for weeks. Then it wandered into Alabama Walmart and found its owner working at the register 12/04/2020 June Rountree and her husband circled their neighborhood night after night looking for their beloved lost dog Abby. Rountree, 60, realized the dog was missing Nov. 8, when she went to the backyard of their home in Dothan, Ala., and instead of seeing her 4-year-old black-and-white dog, she was horrified to see only Abby’s collar and leash, which was secured to a ground stake.

This woman took $166 in items from Ga. Walmart without paying, deputies say 12/04/2020

Farmington NM Walmart Supercenter temporarily closes for sanitization 12/03/2020

Police Need Help Finding Men Who Stole From West Branch Mich. Walmart 12/04/2020

Pair make off with $200 worth of Ga. Walmart merchandise 12/01/2020

Lubbock Tx. PD: Walmart shooting suspect in custody after attempted carjacking 12/04/2020

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - Lubbock police say 20-year-old Kaleb Vasquez, accused of shooting and killing one person at Walmart at 4th & Frankford on Friday, is now in custody after an attempted carjacking.

Police say they took him into custody at a Stripes location in the 1800 block of Avenue A around 8 p.m.

The call of shots fired came in around 3:45 p.m. The store was evacuated by police. Employees are telling us the location will be closed until Monday. Complete article

Arrest warrant describes moments leading up to Walmart shooting 12/06/2020

Warrant: Gunman in deadly Texas Walmart shooting suddenly turned and fired 12/07/2020

Family of man killed at Lubbock Walmart speaks out 12/22/2020


Burlington police investigating after person found dead near NC Walmart 12/04/2020

BURLINGTON, N.C. — Officers with the Burlington Police Department started a death investigation on Friday after a person was found dead near a Walmart, according to a BPD news release.

At 1:41 pm, officers responded to Walmart at 530 S. Graham Hopedale Rd. when they were told about a person lying in the landscaping along the edge of the property.

When they arrived, officers and medical personnel discovered the person was dead. Complete article

Burlington police identify man found dead near Walmart 12/07/2020


Florida attorney general announces arrests in ‘brilliant’ multi-million dollar Walmart crime spree 12/04/2020

POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced the takedown of a multi-state and multi-million dollar Walmart theft operation Friday.

The retail theft operation involved making fraudulent returns on Walmart televisions in exchange for cash. The organized crime spree resulted in $3.6 million of loses to the retail giant since 2014.

Between just August 2019 and March 2020, investigators with the Polk County Organized Retail Crime Unit discovered over $300,000 in loses countrywide — including $174,500 in Florida and $3,500 in Polk County.

So far, two suspects have been arrested, one has died of natural causes, and two are still at large. Complete article

Photos: 2 arrested, 2 wanted, 1 suspect dead in stolen Walmart TV scheme 12/04/2020


Police looking for suspect that robbed Tenn. Walmart cashier at gunpoint 12/04/2020

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Memphis Police needs your help in capturing the suspect that robbed a cashier at gunpoint at the Walmart Neighborhood Market located at the 2800 block of Hickory Hill Road on Thursday.

Police arrived at the scene on Thursday and were told one man entered the business at 11:50 a.m., pulled a black handgun from his waistband, and pointed it at the teller. He demanded money and stole an undetermined amount. He fled the scene on foot running towards the Enclave Home apartment complex.

The suspect is described as male, between 25-35 years old, 5′8″, 190 pounds. He was wearing a white skull cap, multicolored face mask, gray and black Nike Air hoodie with the Jordan symbol on the chest, black and white Nike gloves, great Nike sweat pants, and black and gray sneakers. Complete article


Watertown NY Walmart closes two days for cleaning because of COVID-19 12/0/2020

Police looking for man, woman in theft at Tx. Walmart 12/04/2020

Two men charged with stealing keys, demagnetizer from Redmond Oregon Walmart 12/04/2020

St. Cloud man suspected in series of electronics thefts from Sartell Minn. Walmart 12/04/2020

Police: Man uses stolen debit card at Petersburg Va. Walmart 12/03/2020

Crimestoppers seeks tips on theft from Kansas Walmart 12/04/2020

Man arrested in Crisp Co. Ga. Walmart theft 12/03/2020

After Ga. Walmart mask request, man threatens with handgun, police say 12/06/2020

A Nov. 29 incident at Walmart off Ga. Highway 54 West in Peachtree City resulted in a charge of making terroristic threats against a Fayetteville man when he pulled-up his shirt exposing a handgun and made a threatening comment after being asked by the greeter to put on a mask.

Johnny Bailes, 60, was charged with felony terroristic threats and acts, according to Fayette County Jail records.

Peachtree City Police Department spokesman Chris Hyatt said the incident began when a greeter at the store asked Bailes to put on a mask. Bailes reportedly responded by lifting his shirt to reveal a handgun, making a threatening comment, then proceeding into the store. Complete article


Bedford Man Arrested After Stealing Knives From Ind. Walmart 12/07/2020

(BEDFORD) – A Bedford man was arrested after Bedford Police officers were requested to Walmart after a report og a man concealinh knives in his pocket as if he was going to steal them. When police arrived they located 26-year-old Dallas Knight with a young child.

“When confronted by officers, Knight would not cooperate,” said Chief Terry Moore. “Officers located several knives and two Christmas cards inside Knight’s pockets.”

Knight was arrested on charges of resisting arrest, neglect of a dependent, and criminal mischief. Complete article


Another accused of stealing from Worthington Minn. Walmart 12/06/2020

Walmart Canada site crashes selling PS5, upsetting potential buyers 12/03/2020

Person of interest wanted in Enterprise Alabama Walmart theft 12/07/2020

81-year-old Big Run man arrested for exposing himself to Pa. Walmart employee, DUI 12/07/2020

Williamsburg Ky. Walmart closing at 2 p.m. Monday, set to reopen at 7 a.m. Wednesday 12/07/2020

Two Arrested On Theft And Drug Charges After Stealing From Ind. Walmart 12/07/2020

Man allegedly tried to rob woman in La. Walmart parking lot, claimed it was a prank 12/07/2020

PORT ALLEN - A man arrested for an alleged robbery attempt outside a local Walmart claims it was just a prank gone wrong.

The West Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office said Jonathan Ambeau, 23, of Baton Rouge was arrested for the crime Monday.

Surveillance cameras outside the Port Allen store reportedly caught the incident on video Dec. 3. The sheriff's office said the footage showed Ambeau approaching a woman sitting in her vehicle.

The victim told investigators that Ambeau demanded she hand over everything she had on her. When the woman told him she was ready to defend herself, Ambeau allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle.

When he was arrested Monday, Ambeau claimed that he was never armed and that the entire confrontation was simply a prank he recorded for social media. Complete article


‘Nervous’ man with syringe in pocket arrested at Fla. Wal-Mart at Buffalo Ridge 12/07/2020

A “nervous” man with a syringe in his pocket was arrested at Wal-Mart at Buffalo Ridge Plaza in The Villages.

A Sumter County sheriff’s deputy spotted 36-year-old Todd Louis Fitzgerald of Wildwood at 6:20 p.m. Friday behind the store and shining a light in an otherwise dimly lit area. Fitzgerald initially claimed he was waiting for his girlfriend who was inside the store. He “became nervous and started looking around erratically,” the arrest report said.

The deputy asked Fitzgerald to empty his pockets. The South Hampton, N.Y. native was in possession of a syringe. Complete article


Former Walmart executive sentenced for COVID-19 relief fraud 12/07/2020

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — A former Walmart executive has been sentenced to two years in prison and five years of supervised release for fraudulently seeking $8 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans intended for small businesses affected by COVID-19.

Benjamin Hayford, 32, of Centerton, pleaded guilty in August to fraudulently applying for forgivable, small business loans by claiming fake payroll expenses, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice. Hayford was listed as the senior manager for global technology operations and portfolio at Walmart when he was indicted.

The CARES Act allows up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the PPP. Loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. Complete article


Man charged with theft after impersonating Walmart employee in order to shoplift in South Euclid Ohio 12/06/2020

Walla Walla man Michael Tingle pleads guilty in Wash. Walmart incident 12/07/2020

Person of interest wanted in Enterprise Alabam Walmart theft 12/07/2020

Were you at Ithaca NY Walmart, The Home Depot on these dates? You should go and get tested 12/08/2020

Suspect arrested in August bomb threat at Casper Wy. Walmart locations 12/07/2020

Grinches Attempt To Steal Toys From Md. Walmart Parking Lot: Police 12/07/2020

Suspect arrested in sexual assault of teen in Ann Arbor Mich.-area Walmart 12/08/2020

WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Police have arrested a man suspected of sexually assaulting a teen inside an Ann Arbor-area Walmart in early October.

Antonio Suava McClaster, 30, of Inkster, was arraigned Nov. 20 on two sexual misconduct charges stemming from the sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl at the Pittsfield Township Walmart, 7000 E. Michigan Ave., court records show.

McClaster is charged with one count each of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. Complete article


Walmart Mexico Eyes App Enhancement To Keep Money Transfers In-House 12/08/2020

At a time when the pandemic has seen a massive shift toward digital commerce, the Mexican arm of Walmart – the world’s largest retailer – is looking to leverage the river of remittances that its customers receive from the United States, and to keep more of that cash in-store.

Although Walmart already offers money transfer services such as Western Union and MoneyGram, the famed low-cost leader is looking to produce an in-house model that can do it more cheaply.

“Basically, we are creating this wallet or payment app that will allow you to receive your remittances from the U.S. or from other countries,” Ignacio Caride, head of eCommerce for Walmart Mexico and Central America, told Quartz recently. Complete article


India’s State-Regulated Digital Payments Network Is Dominated by Google and Walmart 12/08/2020

Google Pay and Walmart’s PhonePe continue to dominate the digital payments sector in India built on the country’s United Payments Interface (UPI), a shared payments infrastructure initiated by the state and joined by 200 Indian banks.

According to data released by UPI’s governing body, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Google Pay accounted for about 45% of UPI’s transaction volume and PhonePe came in second with little over 41% of the pie for November. Complete article


GOING GREEN: LaGrange Ga. moves forward on Walmart solar power agreement 12/08/2020

At its Tuesday night meeting, the LaGrange City Council authorized the city’s utilities to execute an agreement with the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG) and Walmart in order to facilitate Walmart’s goals of transitioning to renewable energy.

The agreement will allow LaGrange to partner with MEAG and other MEAG member cities to purchase solar power from a solar development.

It also enables the city to then sell that solar power to Walmart. Complete article


Company of the Year: Walmart 12/08/2020 (Or Propaganda Piece of the Year: Walmart)

After multiple attempts to get into the subscription business, Walmart gave it another go when it launched Walmart+ in September. And this time, not only has it hit the right formula, analysts think; it's coming at the right time. By launching during the pandemic and riding the accompanying e-commerce acceleration, the company is positioning itself to become the omnichannel juggernaut it's long wanted to be.

For taking that strategic risk, Walmart is CFO Dive's Company of the Year.

"Omnichannel ... is what we're focused on," says Brett Biggs, the company's executive vice president and CFO. "We've been so successful as a store company. [Now], over the last several years, we've gotten bigger into e-commerce, and the ability to put these things together allows us to give the customer the chance to shop in a seamless fashion. That's what we want to do." Complete article


DuBois Pa. Walmart closed temporarily 12/08/2020

Spartanburg SC police officer back at work after attack at Walmart 12/08/2020

Police looking for suspects accused of stealing $2,000 worth of merchandise at Indiana County Pa. Walmart 12/09/2020

Keene NH Walmart sees unspecified number of COVID cases 12/08/2020

Police Say Tenn. Woman With Lifetime Ban From Walmart Was Back Skip Scanning 12/08/2020

Walmart announces temporary closure of Oklahoma City location for cleaning 12/08/2020

Walmart closing Paragould Arkansas store for ‘additional cleaning,’ leaving community scrambling 12/0/2020

Jasper Alabama Walmart closes for two days to sanitize 12/09/2020

Shoppers find blood outside Lenoir City Tenn. Walmart after accidental shooting 12/10/2020

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Shoppers reported finding blood outside a Lenoir City Walmart, after a man accidentally shot himself in the leg Thursday evening, according to dispatchers.

Lenoir City Dispatch told WVLT News officers were sent to the Walmart Parking lot located at 911 Highway 321 N in Lenoir City Thursday for a report of shots fired.

Officers arrived on the scene to find a man suffering from a gunshot wound, who told officers he had shot himself in the leg. Complete article


Caught On Cam: Fight at Tx. Walmart, no one hurt 12/10/2020 (false headline, one man was hospitalized.)

WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — A disturbance at the Walmart on Greenbriar caught on video leads to one man being taken to the state hospital.

According to authorities, the call came in around 11 a.m. Thursday. When officers arrived, they discovered a man reportedly yelling racial slurs and soliciting a fight with any black male that arrived in the parking lot, police said.

“He said he was angry because a black male was looking at his wife while they were in the store,” said Sgt. Charlie Eipper with the Wichita Falls Police Department. “During the investigation, the officers discovered the male needed an evaluation at the state hospital so an emergency commitment was done.”

A spokesperson for Walmart said no customers or employees were hurt during the incident.

A video of the situation was posted on Facebook by Staci Priddy, who gave our newsroom permission to use it. Complete article


WATCH: Shoppers line up, stampede into Troy Mich. Walmart in search of Playstation 5 consoles that were never there 12/10/2020

It was like a stampede Monday morning when the doors opened at Walmart in suburban Troy, Mich. About 100 shoppers making a mad dash to get their hands on the hottest thing going right now -- a Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5).

The PS5 retails for $399 digital edition and $499 for the disc edition, but they're selling for more than double that on the resale market.

The line started forming following a rumor online that Walmart would have some of the consoles for sale. But as it turns out, the store didn't have any units in stock. Shoppers who spent the night outside, walked away empty handed.

Some of them had spent seven hours in sub-zero temperatures in their quest to get their hands on the hottest gift this holiday season. Complete article


Ammon Idaho Walmart closes suddenly for cleaning 12/09/2020

Employee who caused bomb scare at Nixa Missouri Walmart pleads guilty to spoiling some food 12/10/2020

Two men steal from Elyria Ohio Walmart twice in same day, police say 12/09/2020

Blotter: Woman allegedly switched prices on bedding at Tx. Walmart 12/09/2020

Ohio Man Impersonates Walmart Employee, Busted for Shoplifting 12/10/2020

Scottsboro Walmart closes for deep cleaning for COVID safety 12/10/2020

Bluefield Va. Walmart closing Thursday for cleaning, will reopen on Saturday 12/10/2020

Walmart Outlines Vaccine Distribution Plans 12/10/2020

Shoplifter suspect arrested following metro Atlanta Ga. Walmart shooting, one injured 12/11/2020

Police are investigating a shooting that left one person injured at an East Point Walmart Friday afternoon.

Investigators say an asset protection officer was shot during the incident with an alleged shoplifter at the Walmart on Cleveland Avenue. The officer was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and was reported alert and conscious.

Police have arrested a person of interest, but they have not identified the suspect nor the victim at this time. Complete article

No ill feelings: Walmart employee shot by man hopes he 'makes the next right decision' 12/15/2020 A loss prevention employee was shot while talking to an alleged shoplifter. But, the employee and his sister say it's hard to be angry at the suspect. ..... “He just needed a few small items. He spent most of the time in the store eating while he was shopping so it was mostly a hungry situation.”


U.S. Marshals task force officers shoot wanted man in Steelyard Commons Cleveland Ohio Walmart parking lot, police say 12/11/2020

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Three officers working for a fugitive task force under the command of the U.S. Marshals in Cleveland shot a 31-year-old Pennsylvania man at the popular Steelyard Commons shopping center Friday, investigators said.

Cleveland police identified the man who suffered the non-life-threatening gunshot wound as Dwayne Taylor, a fugitive from Harrisburg wanted for violating terms of his parole on a burglary conviction, according to a news release hours after the shooting.

Police spokeswoman Sgt. Jennifer Ciaccia said the three officers who fired their weapons were a Cleveland police officer, Euclid police officer and an officer with the United States Marshals Service. The department did not release the names of the officers or how many shots they fired at Taylor.

Police said Taylor pointed a gun at task force officers when they swarmed his Nissan SUV to arrest him. Multiple bullet holes were visible in the SUV’s windshield as police investigated the shooting. Complete article


Man arrested at Ca. Walmart hours after allegedly stealing pickup from person’s driveway 12/11/2020

CHICO — A man was arrested Thursday morning in a Walmart parking lot several hours after he allegedly stole an unoccupied pickup from a person’s driveway while the engine was running.

In a press release, the Chico Police Department identified the man as Harry Akerson, 33, of Chico, who was arrested on suspicion of unlawful taking of a vehicle, possession of stolen property, driving without a license, and possession of burglary tools, after the owner of the pickup and his wife spotted the pickup in the parking lot.

At approximately 5:52 a.m. Thursday morning, the pickup’s owner, who was not identified in the release, started the pickup in the driveway of his residence, located in the 1500 block of Nord Avenue, and went back inside while it warmed up. When he heard the sound of the pickup beginning to move, he spotted a man driving away in his vehicle.

Chico police officers responded to the location where the pickup was stolen and the man provided a description of the man.

Then at approximately 10:33 a.m., while at Walmart, located at 2044 Forest Ave., the man’s wife spotted the pickup in the parking lot and notified law enforcement. The man also responded to the scene, and while in the parking lot near the pickup, noticed a man, later identified as Akerson, who resembled the suspect. Complete article


Crime-fighting kiosks now available in Super Walmart in Pascagoula and Gulfport Mississippi 12/11/2020

As technology advances so do the different ways crooks can carry out their crimes.

Crime Stoppers, area businesses, and investigators have teamed up to forge yet another new way to fight and solve crimes.

It’s the holiday season and while many people are out shopping for gifts and making plans to spend Christmas with their loved ones, there are others who are victims of crime or missing their loved ones due to criminal acts, but crime fighters are hoping some new kiosks will help them pick up new tips and information to help solve these cases. Jackson County Sheriff’s Dept. Sgt. Shane Bozeman said, “Everybody goes to Walmart so hopefully, they’ll come in and take notice to this, and possibly be able to help us with some of our cases, by being able to put in an anonymous tip and being able to collect some money off those anonymous tips if it helps lead to an arrest.” Complete article


Government study shows taxpayers are subsidizing “starvation wages” at McDonald's, Walmart 12/12/2020

Millions of Americans employed at some of the country's largest companies have had to rely on food stamps and Medicaid, with giants like Walmart and McDonald's employing the most workers whose income is subsidized by taxpayers, according to a new study.

The Government Accountability Office, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog, released a study commissioned by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., last month based on data provided by 11 states.

The report found that, in every state studied, Walmart was one of the top four employers whose workers rely on food stamps and Medicaid. McDonald's is among the most subsidized employers in at least nine states.

Walmart employs about 14,500 workers in Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Nebraska, North Carolina, Tennessee and Washington who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the study showed, while McDonald's employs about 8,780 SNAP recipients in those states. Complete article


Okla. Walmart, QuikTrip rack up complaints from public about non-compliance to mask mandate 12/10/2020

2 women wanted for shoplifting at Murfreesboro Tenn. Walmart 12/10/2020

Somonauk Woman Arrested For Shoplifting at Ill. Walmart and Possession of Drugs 12/10/2020

Starbucks joins McDonald's and Walmart in calling for Congress to pass stimulus package, as CEO announces plans for $15 minimum wage 12/10/2020

Walmart closes Hot Springs Arkansas location for cleaning, sanitization 12/11/2020

At height of holiday shopping season, Walmart shuts down Carmel Ind. store for two days 12/11/2020

Walmart to give COVID-19 vaccine following FDA approval 12/12/2020

Westfield Ind. Walmart closes until Dec. 13 to ‘clean and sanitize the building’ 12/11/2020

Police: Man shot outside Walmart in Rossville Md. dies 12/14/2020

ROSSVILLE, Md. — A man who was shot Sunday night outside the Walmart in the Golden Ring Shopping Center died at a hospital, Baltimore County police said.

Police said Kumar Jumar Burney, 20, met another person around 5:23 p.m. Sunday in the parking lot of the shopping center on Petrie Way when Burney was shot in the upper body. Burney was taken to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, where he died, police said.

Police said they don't know why the victim and the other person met but said at least one shot was fired. Investigators were at the scene for hours up until 8:30 p.m. They towed a red SUV from the parking lot but didn't give details as to why.

Police said they interviewed potential witnesses and said they could possibly have been speaking with a suspect, but they weren't sure. No charges have been filed and no one has been arrested. Complete article

Rosedale Md. man fatally shot in Walmart parking lot was attempting to rob another man, police say 12/14/2020


20-year-old woman shot outside Wilton Walmart, near New Castle, Friday night 12/12/2020

A 20-year-old woman was shot Friday night outside a Walmart in Wilton, near New Castle, police said.

New Castle County officers responded at 11:18 p.m. to multiple calls for a shooting at the Walmart and found the woman inside the store, police said. She was taken to a local hospital by ambulance, treated and released. Police said the woman was shot outside the store. Fourteen vehicles and three houses were also struck by gunfire, according to police.

Police are asking anyone with video surveillance within the time frame or information related to the incident to contact Detective Michael McNasby at (302) 395-8110 or Michael.McNasby@newcastlede.gov.

The shooting continued a violent week in Delaware. Complete article


REGIONAL: Bell ringer recovering after attack at Commerce Texas Walmart 12/14/2020

According to reports, he was ringing the Salvation Army bell for the kettle collection when someone approached him and attempted to steal the red kettle filled with money.

A Salvation Army bell ringer is recovering after he was attacked at the Commerce Walmart late last week.

According to reports, he was ringing the Salvation Army bell for the kettle collection when someone approached him and attempted to steal the red kettle filled with money. During the ordeal, his hand was injured and required medical attention. Complete article


Leesburg man nabbed at Summerfield Fla. Wal-Mart after deputy witnesses attack 12/13/2020

A Leesburg man found himself behind bars Thursday night after getting into a nasty scuffle with his lady friend in front of Marion County sheriff’s deputies at the Summerfield Wal-Mart.

Deputies were in the parking lot of the store, located at 17961 S. U.S. Hwy. 27/441, on another call when they heard 39-year-old Jamil Kenyatta Rimes and a woman arguing. Deputies watched Rimes grab the victim in the upper torso “in an extremely aggressive manner,” which caused the woman to be “moved.” She then appeared to pull away from Rimes, the report says.

A deputy went over the area where Rimes and the woman were arguing. Rimes was eventually placed in handcuffs after being “verbally aggressive and loud” with the deputy, the report says. Complete article


Fruitland Park woman and her guy pal jailed after theft at Summerfield Wal-Mart 12/12/2020

Man Wanted For Stealing Two Televisions, Clothing From Long Island NY Walmart 12/13/2020

Three Charged in Retail Theft of Over $1,300 at Oswego Ill. Walmart 12/12/2020

Ind. Walmart closes 2 area stores for cleaning 12/12/2020

Kirkwood Missouri Walmart robbery suspect shoots accomplice before police chase 12/14/2020

EUREKA, Mo. – A man is facing charges after leading police on a 45-minute police chase from the Walmart in Kirkwood Sunday morning. They say that Brandon Burton, 29, also shot his accomplice after an argument broke out in his car.

St. Louis County Police say that Burton and another man were involved in a robbery at the Kirkwood Walmart on Sunday. They got into an argument that turned physical while driving away from the scene. The disagreement was about what happened at the Walmart.

Police say that Burton stopped his car off of an exit on Interstate 44 to remove the other man from his vehicle. He then shot the man several times.

Officers found a man with a gunshot wound just after 9:00 a.m. in the 5300 block of Fox Creek Road in Eureka. The victim was taken to a local hospital to be treated. His injuries required surgery. Complete article


Person shot after gun discharges inside Lancaster SC Walmart 12/14/2020

LANCASTER, S.C. (WBTV) - A person was shot after a gun was discharged inside a Lancaster Walmart Saturday evening.

Police responded to a report of gunshots fired at the Walmart at around 8:45 p.m.

Once officers arrived, they found out that a Black male wearing a dark jacket and beanie cap appeared to have negligently fired a round through the pocket of his coat, striking the floor.

A bullet struck a person inside the store. The bystander was not seriously injured and did not seek medical treatment, according to police.

Police say the shooter and two other males left the store and drove away in an older white Ford Mustang. Complete article


Man Arrested After Threatening to "Shoot Up" Tx. Walmart 12/15/2020

ABILENE, TX -- An Abilene man has been charged with making terroristic threats after he threatened the shoot up Walmart.

According to the Abilene Police Department, officers responded to a north Abilene Walmart around 7:00 p.m.

Witnesses at the scene told officers 42-year-old Ari Joseph Siu Lancelotta was inside the store yelling he was going to "shoot up the place."

They also told police they were worried Lancelotta had a weapon and could carry out his threat. Complete article


Fight Over Sold-Out PlayStation 5 at Doral Fla. Walmart Ends With 3 in Jail 12/14/2020

Tensions were high between a family and a police officer outside of a Doral Walmart on Dec. 10.

The debacle began inside the store moments after Valeria Aguilar and her relatives say they waited in line for the Sony Playstation 5 for more than eight hours.

“A guy from Walmart come to us and he said apparently there’s not 30 PS5’s, so people started to get mad,” Aguilar said. Complete article


Purse snatched in Severn Md. Walmart parking lot 12/14/2020

A woman reported that a man forcibly removed the purse she was wearing while she was in the parking lot of Walmart on George Clauss Boulevard in Severn on Friday, Anne Arundel County police said.

The woman said the man, described as having short brown hair, approximately 5 foot, 7 inches tall wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans, fled in a black Nissan sedan toward Quarterfield Road. Officers responded to the scene at 12:50 p.m. and searched the area but were unable to locate the man.

There are no reported injuries. Western District detectives are investigating and ask anyone with information to call 410-222-6155. Complete article


Purse Snatched at Rome NY Walmart; Do You Know This Woman? 12/14/2020

A woman shopping at the Walmart in Rome over the weekend had her purse stolen inside the store. Now, State Troopers are asking for help identifying an unknown woman in connection with the incident.

The victim told police she had set her purse down to try on an item, then it was gone. The woman said she had several hundred dollars in cash in the purse, along with a credit card and smart phone, police said.

New York State Police in Lee have released this surveillance photo of white woman wearing a pink sweater, long boots and glasses. Complete article

Lowville woman arrested for stealing purse from Rome Walmart with $700 in it 12/17/2020


Walmart expands driverless delivery pilot to Louisiana 12/15/2020

Walmart said Tuesday it has added a second route for a pilot program that uses self-driving trucks for deliveries, expanding the tests beyond its home state of Arkansas into Louisiana.

Walmart’s initiative began last year when it began picking up customers’ online orders and delivering them in an autonomous car within a two-mile radius of a dark store in its hometown of Bentonville, Ark.

Walmart partnered with Gatik — a California-based logistics company — and is now expanding the pilot to Louisiana and multi-temperature box trucks. The partners have driven more than 70,000 miles in Bentonville with a safety driver, Walmart said. Complete article

Walmart’s Driverless Pilot Sounds So Depressing 12/16/2020


Greenpeace Inc. sues Walmart for deceptive recyclability labels on its plastic products and packaging 12/14/2020

Greenpeace urges Walmart to move toward systems of reuse

Washington, DC – Greenpeace Inc. filed a lawsuit in California Superior Court today, alleging that Walmart has employed unlawful, unfair, and deceptive business practices by incorrectly labeling and advertising its various private label throwaway plastic products and packaging as recyclable. Through the suit, Greenpeace is demanding that Walmart remove false and misleading labels stating that its disposable plastic products and packaging are recyclable, when they are not. Greenpeace alleges that Walmart has violated California consumer protection laws, including the California Environmental Marketing Claims Act (EMCA) which regulates deceptive environmental marketing claims.

“Walmart knows that its customers are concerned about single-use plastics, and has been using misleading labels that falsely claim packaging is recyclable when it is bound for an incinerator or landfill,” said Greenpeace Inc. Oceans Campaign Director John Hocevar. “Until Walmart and other polluting corporations take responsibility for the damage their throwaway plastic is doing to our environment and our communities, the plastic crisis will continue to get worse. It is time for Walmart to end its reliance on single-use plastic and shift toward systems of reuse that truly address the pollution crisis.”

Greenpeace’s complaint states that Walmart’s recyclability claims are false, misleading, and deceptive because most consumers in the State of California do not have access to facilities that are capable of segregating the products from the general waste stream to be recycled. Moreover, there are no end markets to use the plastics to manufacture new items, so they are destined to end up in landfills or the natural environment. Complete article


Woman steals bag of Christmas money from Bainbridge Township Ohio Walmart, police say 12/13/2020

Trespasser admits to stealing from Tenn. Walmart when caught by loss prevention 12/13/2020

This week in TikTok: When Walmart and Amazon employees go viral 12/15/2020 Walmart wants its workers to be influencers — but only on their own terms. There’s a TikTok that’s stuck with me ever since I saw it earlier this fall. It’s of a Walmart employee named Shana announcing all the racist and sexist behavior she witnessed during her time on the job over the store microphone, calling out her coworkers by name. She ended with, “I fucking quit.”

Man accused of sexually assaulting teen at Mich. Walmart heads to trial 12/15/2020

Savannah Tenn. police investigating bomb threat at Walmart 12/14/2020

Police: 2 New York City Woman Stole From Hudson Valley Walmart 12/15/2020

18-year-old killed in Stockton Ca. Walmart parking lot marks the city's 53rd homicide 12/15/2020

Stockton police say this marks the city’s 53rd homicide so far in 2020. At this time last year, there had only been 32. STOCKTON, Calif. — Stockton police are investigating after an 18-year-old man was shot and killed in a Walmart parking lot in Stockton on Monday night. It happened off of Hammer Lane around 6:30 p.m.

As the candles and balloons start to pile up at a roadside memorial in the Walmart parking lot, a family is grieving the loss of their 18-year-old brother, cousin, son, and friend.

“No parent should have to bury their child in no circumstances," Harold Halcolmb, a shopper that works across the street said.

The shooting happened at 6:30 p.m., a time when shoppers say the parking lot is usually packed. Complete article


Suspect on the run after flashing gun in Tenn. Walmart, taking money, police say 12/15/2020

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Police are searching for a suspect that potentially has robbed more than one Memphis Walmart this month.

On Dec. 15, one man entered the Walmart Supercenter located in the 3900 block of Austin Peay Highway just before 9 a.m. and showed a gun, a release said.

The suspect pointed a black handgun at a teller. Complete article


Court affirms $17M jury verdict for woman injured at WV Walmart 12/14/2020

SD Walmart Evacuated Briefly Monday Over Gas Leak Concern 12/14/2020

La. Walmart employees praised for saving woman’s life 12/15/2020

Police: Norwalk man left children alone while shoplifting from Conn. Walmart 12/15/2020

Deputies looking for man accused of showing lewd photo to Walmart cashier in Palm Coast Fla. 12/16/2020

Bedford Woman Issued Summons After Stealing From Ind. Walmart 12/15/2020

Report: Man caught masturbating in women’s restroom at Abilene Tx. Walmart 12/16/2020

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – A man was caught masturbating in the women’s restroom at an Abilene Walmart Tuesday afternoon.

Cristobal Vega was taken into custody at the Walmart on Hwy 351 just before 1:00 p.m.

Vega’s arrest report states a woman called police after seeing Vega masturbating in an open stall in the women’s restroom at the store.

When Vega was detained at the scene, he gave police a false name. He was later identified through his finger prints when he was booked into jail. Complete article


Manatee County Fla. Sheriff’s Office Deputy suspended for not wearing mask at Walmart 12/16/2020

BRADENTON, Fla. (WWSB) - A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office

According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Billie Woodson was off duty on Sept. 21, 2020 and dressed in civilian attire when he went shopping with his family at the Walmart located at 6225 E. State Road 64 in Bradenton.

Though Walmart posted signs at all entries requiring all employees and customers to wear a mask upon entry into the establishment, Deputy Wilson and his family entered the business without masks.

While in the sporting goods section, Deputy Wilson was asked by another shopper why he nor his family were wearing face coverings. According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Wilson said he chose not to wear a face covering because of “his right to choose, he, and his wife, possessed conceal weapons permits, he has a medical condition and he is a law enforcement officer.”

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office says Deputy Wilson allegedly flashed a silver star badge at the complainant to punctuate the veracity of his rationalizations. However, when asked for his name, badge number or where he worked, Deputy Wilson refused to furnish the information. Complete article


Watertown NY Walmart under investigation for claims of forcing employees back to work amid COVID 12/16/2020

WATERTOWN — The Outer Arsenal Street Walmart is under investigation by Jefferson County and state officials for claims of forcing employees to work, even after they were ordered to stay home by the Jefferson County Public Health Service for COVID-19.

According to Scott A. Gray, the county Board of Legislators chairman, the county has received three complaints directly through the New York on PAUSE coronavirus violation reporting system, and more have been called into the public health service, the county administrator’s office and even local media outlets.

Mr. Gray said he received an email from an anonymous employee Wednesday morning describing how Walmart’s sick-leave policies require an employee have paid time off available if they need to call off of work. If an employee has no paid time off available, and can’t make it to their shift, they are given a “point.” If an employee racks up five points, they are fired. Complete article


Camp Chef portable gas stoves sold at Walmart recalled because of fire hazard 12/16/2020

Several models of Camp Chef portable gas stoves sold at sporting goods stores and at Walmart have been recalled because the gas can leak and create a fire hazard.

According to an announcement with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, “an internal part of the gas regulator component can have a sharp edge that can wear or tear a hole in the seal causing gas to leak out of the top of the regulator, posing a fire hazard.”

About 20,600 of the stoves were sold nationwide from August 2019 through September 2020 for between $50 and $300, depending on the model. Complete article


Walmart to temporarily close Supercenter in Shawnee Okla. 12/16/2020

Woman claiming to steal items for kids at children’s home nailed at Summerfield Fla. Wal-Mart 12/16/2020

Walmart reopens in Kirkwood Missouri following bomb threat 12/16/2020

Cantonment Man Facing Multiple Charges For Stealing Electronics From Fla. Target, Walmart Stores 12/17/2020

Pico Rivera Ca.’s Walmart closed for two days for deep cleaning 12/16/2020

Anderson Ca. Walmart Supermarket customers speak out on the store reopening after a deep clean 12/16/2020

Walmart closing Huntsville Alabama location for deep cleaning 12/15/2020

Southaven police searching for suspect in Mississippi Walmart armed robbery 12/17/2020

SOUTHAVEN, Miss. (WMC) - Officers are searching for a suspect after an employee was robbed at a Southaven, Mississippi Walmart. The store is located on Sotuhcrest Parkway near Goodman Road.

Police said the incident happened around 7:20 Thursday morning.

Investigators said the suspect was wearing a mask with a yellow and black jacket with a hood on. He was also armed with a handgun. Complete article


COVID-19: Man Arrested After Intentionally Coughing On NY Walmart Customer, Police Say 12/18/2020

A man was arrested for allegedly coughing on another customer at an area Walmart several times after an eagle-eyed police officer spotted him during a traffic stop.

The incident took place on Monday, December 14, in Rockland County at Walmart in the Village of Airmont, said the Ramapo Police.

It was alleged that the man, an Orange County resident, unprovoked coughed on another customer several times. The man then left the store, police said. Complete article


Walmart and Sam's Club customers may be entitled to a payment from a class action settlement if they returned a purchase and didn't get a full refund. 12/18/2020

ST. LOUIS, Dec. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The following statement is being issued regarding Pearlstone v. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Case No. 4:17-cv-02856-HEA (E.D. Mo.)

Si desea recibir este aviso en español, llámenos o visite nuestro sitio web. O usa el traductor de Google.

What Is This Notice About?

This notice provides important information about a proposed settlement in a class action lawsuit against Walmart, Pearlstone v. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Case No. 4:17-cv-02856-HEA (E.D. Mo.). The lawsuit claims that Walmart violated the law by incorrectly calculating and refunding the sales taxes it owed to customers who returned items purchased in store or online from Walmart or Sam's Club after July 17, 2015. Although the court presiding over the case has not decided who is right or wrong, the parties have reached a compromise to end the lawsuit and provide compensation to those who may have been affected. Please read this notice carefully. It summarizes the rights and options under the settlement. You can access and read the full settlement agreement at www.WalmartRefundClassAction.com.

Who's In The Settlement?

The Settlement Class includes all individuals who, during the period July 17, 2015 through November 25, 2020, returned an item purchased from a Walmart store, Sam's Club store, or online from Walmart.com or Samsclub.com for pickup or delivery within the United States, and to whom Walmart or Sam's Club gave a refund or credit, but the amount of sales tax refunded or credited was less than the full amount of sales tax paid at the time the item was purchased. Complete article


Maskless shoppers at Walmart? Concerned citizen suggests a non-confrontational approach 12/15/2020

Palm Springs Ca. Walmart closed for cleaning; Store will reopen on Saturday 12/17/2020

Bloomington Woman Arrested After Stealing Items from Ind. Walmart 12/18/2020 According to a probable cause affidavit, on April 28, 2019, a woman was captured on video scanning a Kool-aid package that cost 24 cents and then putting a stack of folded clothing into a bag. She admitted she knew she shouldn’t have stolen the items. However, she then stated that she was caught up in the moment and was trying to just get items for her child.

Local police warn of ‘free money’ scam via fake Walmart letter 12/17/2020

CRIME STOPPERS: Man wanted after sound bar is stolen from Ill. Walmart 12/17/2020

How eBay’s, Walmart’s Engineering Teams Tackle Test Automation 12/17/2020

Richmond Ind. PD hunts for armed woman who robbed Walmart 12/18/2020

RICHMOND, Ind. — A woman robbed Richmond's Walmart on Thursday night.

Richmond Police Department officers responded about 7:15 p.m. to the armed robbery report, according to Capt. Curt Leverton in a news release.

A light-skinned woman approached a clerk with a note demanding money and reportedly displayed a weapon, according to the release. The woman was wearing a pink hooded sweatshirt and light gray sweatpants.

She escaped the store with an undisclosed amount of money and left the area in a gray car. Complete article


NC Walmart Brawl Ends with Woman Stomped On, Knocked Out Cold ... Allegedly Over PS5 12/18/2020

Shopping rage isn't easing up in the pandemic -- a shouting match inside a Walmart turned violent, and ended with a woman getting stomped in the face.

You can see in the video, this confrontation between 2 women went from zero to 100 real quick in the Walmart near Charlotte, and the reason? Reportedly, a PS5 gaming console, naturally. The woman with long braids was getting ready to throw hands, and asked her opponent, "What the f**k are you gonna do?"

A man riding a motorized cart, actually tried to deescalate the sitch by getting between the women -- but you can see, he failed, and after a hot minute ... all hell broke loose.

Hair was pulled, punches were thrown ... and in the end, the woman with braids appeared to be knocked out cold. Complete article


Suit dismissed over Ariz. Walmart arrest, but attorney says it's not over 12/18/2020

A judge on Thursday dismissed a lawsuit against the Town of Sahuarita filed by a man who said his constitutional rights were violated during an arrest at Walmart in August 2019.

WATCH THE ARREST VIDEO

U.S. District Judge John C. Hinderaker said Freedom Christopher Pfaendler’s suit against the town and five police officers failed to make a case on any of its assertions and granted the town’s motion to dismiss. But Hinderaker left open the door to have the complaint refiled, and Pfaendler’s attorney said via email Friday that they plan to do that.

“The case isn’t over, this is an easily corrected matter on a technical issue which is why the court’s order gives us this opportunity,” attorney Richard Wintory said. “We will take the appropriate steps and continue on our path to obtain justice for Mr. Pfaendler and to remedy this practice that threatens anyone who offends Wal-mart’s management with a false arrest.” Complete article


Catalytic converters stolen from cars parked at both Evansville Ind. Walmart stores 12/19/2020

EVANSVILLE, Ind (WEHT) Police are investigating catalytic converter thefts that took place in the parking lots of two different Walmart stores in Evansville.

Officers responded to the east side Walmart on Burkhardt Rd to meet with one victim. Police say the victim told them he parked his vehicle on the south end of the parking lot at 7 a.m. and when he returned at 4 p.m., he found that the catalytic converter had been cut from his vehicle.

At this time, police say they do not have a suspect, and no video evidence was available.

Police also responded to a report of a catalytic converter theft from the west side Walmart location on Red Bank Rd. Police say the victim stated she went to work at 5 a.m. and found her catalytic converter gone when she returned to her car at 5 p.m.

The victim’s vehicle was parked on the east side of the store’s parking lot near the lawn and garden center, and the incident was caught on camera. Walmart stated the video shows the incident occurring around 10:40 a.m. Complete article


Amazon slams Walmart for not paying workers $15 per hour, following new criticism of the e-commerce giant's treatment of workers 12/18/2020

Amazon took a dig at Walmart's worker pay in a recent Bloomberg article.

In analysis of 68 counties where Amazon opened warehouses, average industry compensation dropped by 6% within two years, Bloomberg reported. Average wages increased five years after Amazon arrived in the areas.

In response to the article, Amazon questioned why the report did not explore wages at Walmart, the US's largest retailer.

"Hiring more, by paying less, simply does not work. Many of our employees join Amazon from other jobs in retail which tend to be predominantly part-time, reduced benefit jobs with substantially less than our $15 minimum wage," Amazon said in a statement to Bloomberg. "These employees see a big increase in pay per hour, total take-home pay, and overall benefits versus their previous jobs. What surprises us is that we are the focus of a story like this when some of the country's largest employers, including the largest retailer, have yet to join us in raising the minimum wage to $15." Complete article


Walmart exec' joins PeopleForBikes board 12/15/2020

BOULDER, Colo. (BRAIN) — Walmart has joined the PeopleForBikes Coalition, which represents nearly 300 companies that manufacture and sell bikes. PeopleForBikes also said Walmart's executive vice president, Daniel Trujillo will join the coalition's board of directors.

"It is perfect timing for Walmart to join the coalition, and I am honored to be a member of the board," said Trujillo, also Walmart's global chief ethics and compliance officer. "Bicycling plays a significant role in my life, personally as a triathlete, and professionally as Walmart's sponsor for our alternative transportation initiative. I look forward to what we can accomplish together to make bicycling better for everyone."

PeopleForBikes initially announced in May that Walmart had joined the coalition.

Walmart committed last year to encourage 10% of its associates to take active transportation to and from work within the next five years. Complete article


North Texas Walmart Neighborhood Market Closing To Sanitize For COVID-19 12/18/2020

Man wanted in reference to shoplifting at Walmart on Beltline Drive in Florence SC 12/18/2020

Bartlesville Okla. police: Man exposes himself to young girl at Walmart 12/18/2020

Clarksburg WV Walmart to close for 41 hours for deep cleaning 12/20/2020

New details in shooting incident in Dickerson Pike Walmart parking lot 12/2/2020

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The victim injured in a shooting incident in a Walmart parking lot argues the charge should be harsher for the suspect.

Kelly Ivey tells NewsChannel 5 he was pulling out of a parking spot at the Dickerson Pike Walmart in Nashville when a man stopped and confronted him, saying Ivey almost hit his vehicle.

According to a Metro Nashville Police Department report, Earl Smith told officers he approached Ivey after witnessing Ivey sideswipe a vehicle. The affidavit goes on to read that when Ivey ignored Smith, Smith reached into Ivey's vehicle and grabbed the gear shift to place the car in park in an attempt to stop Ivey from leaving the scene. That's when, according to police, Smith reached for a gun and pointed it at the victim. The narrative from the affidavit reads:
The victim placed the vehicle into drive after reversing and in doing so, the defendant shot his handgun in the direction of the victim's neck causing a grazing injury to the left side of his neck.

Metro investigators say a private security guard attempted to help the victim and secured the gun from the suspect until officers arrived. Complete article


Man accused of setting fire at Stanly County NC Walmart 12/21/2020

ALBEMARLE, N.C. — Police have arrested and charged a man accused of setting a fire at a Walmart in Stanly County Friday night.

It happened around 10:30 p.m. at the Walmart on Leonard Avenue. Complete article


S.C. Johnson joins with Coke, Walmart, Pepsi and others to implement 'circular approach' to plastic waste 12/20/2020

Snopes: Did Walmart Employees Hide a PS5 Stash for Themselves? 12/19/2020 False

Law Log: Woman reportedly left NC Walmart through fire exit with cart full of toys 12/20/2020

Walmart store in Grand Blanc closing to allow third party crews to come in and clean 12/21/2020

Memphis Police investigating deadly double-shooting near Walmart on Winchester in Southeast Memphis Tenn. 12/23/2020

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Police said officers are on the scene of a deadly double-shooting in the 7500 block of Winchester in Southeast Memphis.

MPD said officers arrived to the scene and located two shooting victims. Memphis Police said a male victim was pronounced dead, and the female victim was transported to Regional One Hospital in non-critical condition. Complete article

Two arrested in double shooting near Walmart just days before Christmas, police say 12/25/2020


Broomfield Colorado police investigate attempted robbery, shots fired at Walmart 12/21/2020

Broomfield police are investigating an attempted robbery at Walmart on Sunday that led to a gun being fired.

One suspect pushed a cart full of items out of the Walmart at 500 Summit Blvd. to a waiting vehicle, said Broomfield police spokesperson Rachel Welte.

When a loss prevention officer approached, a shot was fired from the passenger side of the car, thought to be a Ford Fusion, but no one was injured.

The suspect or suspects have not been arrested, Welte said, and the investigation remains ongoing. Police said there is no threat to public safety. Complete article


Serial armed robbery suspect arrested at Clayton County Ga. Walmart 12/22/2020

A man accused of holding up three Clayton County businesses — including two in the span of 15 minutes — was arrested Sunday evening following a foot chase outside a Riverdale Walmart, authorities said.

Aujanae Wiles, 35, was captured by an off-duty Riverdale police lieutenant working a part-time job at the store along Ga. 85, the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. According to the agency, management alerted the detective to a man inside the store with a cart full of merchandise.

After telling Wiles he needed to make his way toward the cashier and pay for the items in his cart, authorities said the man ran from the store.

“During the foot chase the male subject reached in his waistband and threw a revolver behind a semitruck,” the sheriff’s office said, adding Wiles was eventually tracked down and arrested. Complete article


Family truck stolen from Ill. Walmart parking lot with gifts inside 12/21/2020

COLLINSVILLE, Ill. – A family’s truck filled with Christmas gifts was stolen from a Collinsville Walmart parking lot.

Rachael Reinheimer’s 10-year-old daughter had been saving up all year to buy her family Christmas gifts.

After baking Christmas cookies Sunday, Rachel’s daughter gathered up the $100 she had saved and the family went to Fairview Heights to help her shop.

After shopping, they were headed home but decided to make one last stop at Walmart.

Rachel said they parked their truck near the home section where there were not a ton of vehicles. They were only inside for about 20 minutes and when they came out, their truck was gone. Complete article


Crash cleared on Ogeechee Rd. near Savannah Ga. Walmart 12/2/2020

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A bad crash that had one northbound lane of Ogeechee Road/Highway 17 near Walmart closed Wednesday morning has been cleared.

Police say the single-vehicle rollover crash happened around 4 a.m. They say the female driver had no serious injuries.

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Complete article


Feds sue Walmart over role in opioid crisis 12/22/2020

WASHINGTON -- The Justice Department sued Walmart, alleging the company unlawfully dispensed controlled substances through its pharmacies, helping to fuel the opioid crisis in America.

The civil complaint filed Tuesday points to the role Walmart’s pharmacies may have played in the crisis by filling opioid prescriptions and by unlawfully distributing controlled substances to the pharmacies during the height of the opioid crisis. Walmart operates more than 5,000 pharmacies in its stores around the country.

The Justice Department alleges Walmart violated federal law by selling thousands of prescriptions for controlled substances that its pharmacists “knew were invalid,” said Jeffrey Clark, the acting assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Department’s civil division. Complete article

Colorado’s U.S. attorney joins federal suit against Walmart over opioid distribution 12/22/2020

Walmart fights back against DOJ opioid lawsuit and action begs question about why DEA isn't doing its job 12/24/2020


Walmart collaborates with Thrive Global to launch health and behavior program 12/21/2020

LITTLE ROCK — Multiple Bentonville residents and employees of Bentonville-based retailer Walmart recently won a share of $1 million as part of a 21-day challenge to improve health and change behaviors.

Kyla Fleming and Patrick Fuller, both of Bentonville, recently won $5,000 after completing the 21-day challenge and submitting a story about it. Earlier this fall, Bentonville resident Ricardo Maisonet won $25,000 and was named a grand champion.

Walmart recently collaborated with Thrive Global, a New York-based behavior change technology company founded by Arianna Huffington, to help Walmart employees and customers make better choices and achieve healthier behavior changes. Complete article


Busted- Walking Out of Fla. Walmart With More than $725 Worth of Unpaid For Items 12/21/2020

Woman attempting to return merchandise arrested at Wal-Mart at Buffalo Ridge Plaza Fla. 12/21/2020

Man wanted for sexually assaulting women shoppers at Walmart, Dollar Tree in Gastonia NC 12/21/2020

Oregon Health Authority: BLM faces workplace outbreak; Walmart’s is resolved 12/21/2020

Three detained, no injuries reported after police respond to call of ‘active shooter’ at Tenn. Walmart 12/2/2020

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Sevierville Police said three people have been detained after a reported gunman at the Walmart on the Parkway.

The call came in Wednesday afternoon as an “active shooter,” police said dozens of people were rushed out of the Walmart just after 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to a manager for the nearby Chick-Fil-A store.

Investigators said they were looking into reports of a single shot being fired inside the Walmart, but said they could not confirm whether that occurred.

Police said no victims had been found after searching the Walmart multiple times.

Cody Cummings told WVLT News Anchor Amanda Hara between 20 and 30 Walmart customers were safe harboring inside the Chick-Fil-A store that he manages. The restaurant is next door to the Walmart. Cummings said a civilian safe harboring inside his store reported a fight between two men which resulted in one of the men pulling out a gun. People nearby became alarmed which caused panic to ensue.

Cummings said one of his employees was inside the Walmart when customers were alerted over the loudspeaker that a man with a gun was moving through the store.

Cummings reported that a SWAT team was set up in the area, apparently searching for the possible gunman. Complete article

Two men charged following altercation at Walmart in Sevierville 12/23/2020 According to Detective Lieutenant Ray Brown, Mr. Bonner allegedly pushed Mr. Ngayan down during an argument, whereupon Mr. Ngayan displayed and pointed a handgun at Mr. Bonner. Mr. Bonner retreated to another location in the store, followed by Mr. Ngayan. Mr. Bonner then displayed and pointed his own handgun at Mr. Ngayan. No shots were fired during the altercation.

2 suspects charged in shooting at Tenn. Walmart 12/23/2020


Jackson Tenn. police seek suspect in robbery at Walmart 12/23/2020

JACKSON, Tenn. — Jackson police are investigating a robbery Wednesday morning at Walmart on Emporium Drive.

Police say officers responded to a report of a robbery in the Money Center at Walmart around 8:15 a.m.

Police say the suspect was able to leave the store with an undetermined amount of money and ran toward the Country Inn and Suites.

The employee told investigators they did not see a weapon, but believed the suspect was armed, according to police. Complete article


Police investigate report of handgun, stalking claim at Tx. Walmart 12/23/2020

Police detained, questioned and released two people Tuesday night during an incident involving a suspected gun and possible stalking at Walmart in Seguin.

The police response led to evacuation of the store but no one was hurt and officers never found a weapon, according to a news release on early Wednesday.

“The two individuals initially detained have been released and no charges have been filed at this time,” the statement read. “No weapon has been recovered. The investigation into the original stalking report is ongoing.”

About 10 p.m. Tuesday, officers went to Walmart for a report of two men stalking a woman at the store, according to the statement. She told authorities the two men were “repeatedly stalking her,” the statement read. Complete article


Man Punches LI NY Walmart Employee: Police 12/23/2020

COMMACK, NY — Chaos broke out at a Walmart in Commack on Tuesday night.

A man entered the store, at 85 Crooked Hill Road, at 8 p.m. and punched an employee, Suffolk police said. When Kerri Devlin, a Kings Park woman, began videotaping the incident, the man knocked the phone out of her hand, police said.

Devlin told Patch the man smashed her phone on the ground after deleting footage of the incident. Devlin said she began attacking the man, and as they were on the ground, her father and several other people attacked the man. Complete article


Police falsely arrested Black woman for shoplifting at Pa. Walmart in East York, lawsuit says 12/23/2020

Latoya Batty realized that she left behind a bag of items that she’d paid for at Walmart.

So on Jan. 27, 2019, Batty, a nurse and mother of three, called customer service, which was holding the merchandise. She later came back with a receipt to the store on East Market Street in Springettsbury Township.

But a Walmart employee accused her without evidence of shoplifting about $1,000 worth of items and summoned law enforcement. Police threw her to the ground, repeatedly punched her in the head, handcuffed her and fingerprinted her more than 10 times, a lawsuit claims, before later admitting that she was not the person who’d stolen from the store.

Later, Batty received a citation for retail theft, which was ultimately “dismissed or terminated” in her favor, the lawsuit alleges. Complete article


Police searching for missing woman last seen at Ga. Walmart 12/22/2020

Bartlesville Okla. police: Man arrested after exposing himself to child at Walmart 12/22/2020

Target, Walmart in Fresno Ca. to be shut down under proposed emergency order 12/22/2020

Ithaca NY Walmart latest public COVID-19 exposure alert from health department 12/22/2020

Fatal officer-involved shooting in Redding, Ca. chaotic Christmas Eve After crashing through Walmart 12/24/2020

Redding police are currently investigating what has been a chaotic Christmas Eve in Redding. A female suspect has been killed in an officer-involved shooting following a series of additional crimes including a shooting, a carjacking, and driving a car through Walmart.

According to RPD officials, the female suspect called the police department and admitted to shooting someone. Officers responded to the neighborhood of Irwin Rd. and found a man suffering a life-threatening gunshot wound.

The shooting victim was transported to the hospital, according to officials. His condition is currently unknown.

Following this incident, RPD says the suspect carjacked someone at gunpoint near the Domino's Pizza on E Cypress Ave.

The suspect then traveled to Walmart and drove through the building.

Officers say they later found the suspect's car behind some apartments in the area of Browning St. and Old Alturas Rd.

While searching the area, officers found her on-foot on Browning St. armed with a knife. Specific details are unknown, but RPD has confirmed the female suspect has died following an officer-involved shooting.

Additionally, while working on the scene, RPD says a driver sped through the roadblock officers had prepared and crashed into a police cruiser. The driver of that vehicle was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested. Nobody was injured during this incident, according to officers. Complete article

Entrance to Redding Walmart blocked off, officer-involved shooting investigation continues 12/25/2020


Large police presence at Springfield Ill. Walmart following a shooting 12/24/2020

Police are investigating a shooting at the Walmart on Freedom Drive on Christmas Eve.

According to Springfield Police, a 17-year-old from Jacksonville was shot in the foot in the parking lot just before 6 p.m. on Thursday.

The victim was taken to the hospital in a personal vehicle with non-life threatening injuries. Complete article


Police: Man with machete who caused disturbance at Nebraska Walmart arrested 12/24/2020

A man with a machete disrupted late-afternoon Christmas Eve shopping at a Walmart in northeast Lincoln before being taken into custody.

According to reports from people inside the store, customers and workers were asked to leave the store at 3400 N. 85th Street at about 5 p.m., after Lincoln Police officers were called to the scene.

They found the suspect and made attempts to calm him as he moved throughout the store, one witness said. After several minutes, he was arrested without incident. Complete article


Police: Man shoves 70-year-old Ontario Oregon Walmart employee to ground 12/24/2020

An elderly employee at Walmart in Ontario was injured this afternoon, when he tried to stop a customer who was trying to enter the store through closed doors and was shoved to the ground.

According to an email from Ontario Police Sgt. Jon Esplin, a 21-year-old man from Parma, whose name has not yet been disclosed, is facing charges of assault in the fourth degree, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Those charges will be forwarded to the Malheur County District Attorney’s office for review.

Esplin said officers responded at about 2:12 p.m. “to a report of a large group of people involved in an altercation” at the store, which is at 1775 E. Idaho Ave. Complete article


Pill mill doctors in Florida directed customers to Walmart to fill sketchy opioid prescriptions, lawsuit alleges 12/24/2020

Amid ongoing litigation against pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors and drug-store chains, federal officials are targeting Walmart Inc. for allegedly filling thousands of prescriptions for controlled substances that its pharmacists knew were invalid.

In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in Delaware, the U.S. Department of Justice accused Walmart of unlawfully dispensing controlled substances from pharmacies it operated across the country and unlawfully distributing controlled substances to those pharmacies throughout the height of the prescription opioid crisis.

The lawsuit alleges that Walmart failed to adequately scrutinize prescriptions to ensure they were legitimate before they were filled. The legal complaint includes allegations about “improper prescribing” by “F.T.,” an orthopedist who operated pain management clinics in Tampa and Punta Gorda. Complete article


Flash flooding swamps Garner NC Walmart parking lot 12/24/2020

Swansboro NC Walmart shuts down after report of "suspicious bag" 12/24/2020

Two arrested after shoplifting at Kansas Walmart 12/24/2020

Maryville Tenn. Walmart evacuated after bomb threat 12/24/2020

Suspect at-large after shooting near northside Walmart in Pueblo​ Colorado 12/26/2020

PUEBLO, Colo. — A suspect remains at-large after a man in a car shot at another person on the north side of Pueblo.

On Saturday at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Pueblo Police Department received information that a shooting had occurred on Dillon Drive near the Walmart.

Police said a victim was shot by a suspect driving a blue or green, Ford Explorer and he was taken to the hospital but is expected to be OK.

The victim told police he had an argument with the suspect that escalated to a shooting while driving northbound on Dillon Drive. Complete article


Trumann Arkansas police investigate robbery at Walmart, continue search for suspect 12/26/2020

TRUMANN, Ark. (KAIT) - Trumann police are continuing their investigation into a robbery Saturday morning at Walmart, according to Police Chief Chad Henson.

Officers got a call around 10 a.m. about the robbery at the Walmart Supercenter in the 500 block of Industrial Drive.
Trumann Police Department
🚨Aggravated Robbery🚨
At approximately 10am on 12/26/2020 Walmart in Trumann was robbed by a black male wearing a blue medical mask, hoodie and slim fit red pants with white spots or checks. The suspect was last observed running eastbound near the rear of Walmart. The suspect brandished a firearm during the robbery.

More video and photos are being processed and will be provided at a later time. If you have any information, contact the Trumann PD at 8704836423.
Complete article


Crime reports: Car reported stolen from Mississippi Walmart on Christmas Eve 12/26/2020

Officers with the Vicksburg Police Department responded to Walmart on Christmas Eve for a report of a stolen vehicle.

Just after noon on Thursday, a victim reported her red, 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe was stolen while she was inside shopping.

The Vicksburg Police Department did not provide any information as to any suspects. Complete article


Nashville bomb AT&T outage latest updates: Some Walmart stores in Alabama cash only, no returns 12/26/2020

The Christmas day bomb in Nashville continues to cause disruptions for phone and internet services in parts of Alabama.

Some AT&T services in North Alabama have been down since yesterday morning after an RV rigged with explosives went off in downtown Nashville. The blast injured three people and caused widespread service disruptions for some 911 operations and AT&T and T-Mobile cell phone users.

North Alabama retailers – including Walmart – have also been impacted.

Social media users reported many Walmart stores are only able to accept cash and are not processing returns on what’s typically a busy day as holiday shoppers bring back items. Complete article


Former Walmart Executives Form Company to Reduce Food Waste 12/28/2020

During their eight-year stint at Walmart’s technology labs, Syed Aman and Sharan Grewal, were part of the team that built the online grocery platform into a multi-billion dollar business. The two used their technology and produce delivery expertise to develop Hwy Haul, a Silicon Valley-based technology company that helps move freight by matching shippers with carriers on its digital freight brokerage platform.

Founded in October 2018 in Santa Clara, Calif., the company has grown 400% year-over-year and raised close to $3 million from notable investors. The company’s mission is to reduce food wastage, lower carbon emissions and improve all stakeholders’ efficiency.

“Hwy Haul is reimagining the future supply chain of fresh produce,” says Sharan Grewal, CTO and co-founder of Hwy Haul. “Our (patented) digital freight platform uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Optimization Algorithms to match loads with reliable carriers in our network -- both in U.S. and Canada -- and provides real-time freight tracking with smart alerts. We would like to create a near-magical and touchless experience for every actor involved in this value chain.” Complete article


Youngstown Ohio police warn of scam involving fake Walmart checks 12/24/2020

Cops Use License Plate Number To Catch Alleged Orange County NY Walmart Thief 12/26/2020

Holiday Gift Return Rules FL Retailers: Amazon, Target, Walmart 12/26/2020

Lincoln Nebraska Walmart temporarily closing for deep clean 12/28/2020

Chula Vista Ca. Walmart Closes for Cleaning 12/28/2020

Butte Montana driver shot in Walmart parking lot 12/29/2020

A Butte man was shot in the ankle just as he was pulling out of the Walmart parking lot on the afternoon before Christmas.

At about 2:45 p.m. officers were dispatched to the 3300 block of Carter to speak to the shooting victim, who told officers he was getting ready to turn south onto Harrison Avenue when a white Honda pulled alongside his vehicle. He heard a gunshot and then felt pain in his ankle.

While investigating the case, officers learned that an acquaintance of the victim shot through the driver’s side door, and the bullet struck the victim in the ankle. Complete article


Heavy police presence at East Bakersfield Ca. Walmart after shots fired outside store 12/28/2020

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Multiple police cruisers rushed to the Walmart in East Bakersfield on Monday after shots were fired outside the store.

Police said no injuries were reported. An officer in the area heard the gunshots at about 1:17 p.m. and found a person in possession of a gun, police said. No one else is believed to be involved.

It’s unknown if the person was shooting at another person or in the air, police said. The Walmart was evacuated out of an abundance of caution, police spokesman Sgt. Robert Pair said. Complete article

UPDATE: Man arrested after firing handgun in parking lot of Walmart store 12/29/2020


Pedestrian dead after being hit by vehicle near Van Buren Arkansas Walmart 12/28/2020

Police confirmed a 59-year-old man is dead after he was struck by a vehicle near a Walmart in Van Buren Monday night.

VAN BUREN, Ark. — Emergency crews responded to a Walmart in Van Buren Monday night after a vehicle struck a pedestrian near the store.

The crash happened in front of the Walmart on Fayetteville Road in Van Buren near Highway 59.

The person hit, a 59-year-old man, was transported to an area hospital. According to Sgt. Jonathan Wear with the Van Buren Police Department, the man has died due to his injuries. Complete article


‘Help! He’s got a gun!’ Women fend off would-be robber in Ill. Walmart parking lot 12/28/2020

COLLINSVILLE, Ill. – A suspect is on the loose following an attempted robbery at a Walmart in Collinsville, Illinois. The would-be robber went after two women as they were loading items they bought into their vehicle.

“I turned and started screaming like a crazy person—bloody murder—screaming, ‘Help! He’s got a gun!’ Screaming with everything my lungs had,” said Diana Hardesty.

Hardesty and Mattie Talbot were loading their car when a man jumped out of the passenger side of a dark-colored SUV, displayed a gun, and demanded a purse.

“I wasn’t going to give my purse with my personal information in it,” Hardesty said. “And I knew when I turned around there was going to be a good chance he was going to shoot me in the back. But that’s just what he was going to have to do.” Complete article


Do you recognize this woman? Police say she assaulted a Missouri Walmart employee on Christmas Eve 12/29/2020

Henry County – The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help in identifying the woman in this surveillance photo. Police say she assaulted a Walmart employee on Christmas Eve after she was confronted about potentially shoplifting.

In a Facebook post, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office said the woman also had a child with her. The Sheriff’s office is asking the public to contact Dep. A.T. Marinus with any information at (276) 638-8751 or call Crime Stoppers at (276) 632-7463. Complete article


Walmart on Serene, Eastern in Las Vegas Nevada temporarily closed 12/22/2020

Walmart will not sell COVID-19 vaccine for $ 400 Mexican pesos in the US Why the confusion? 12/27/2020

LETTER: Maskless customers at Walmart drive me away 12/28/2020

Clio Mich. Walmart to temporarily close for cleaning, sanitizing 12/27/2020

Deputies arrest LSU football player for theft from Port Allen La. Walmart 12/24/2020

Parkersburg WV Walmart closing for deep cleaning 12/29/2020

Police searching for suspect after robbery at Meridian Idaho Walmart 12/30/2020

MERIDIAN, Idaho — Police are asking for the public's help tracking down a man who robbed a Walmart store in Meridian Tuesday night.

The robbery happened just after 9:30 p.m. at the Walmart on Ten Mile Road.

According to police, the man told a cashier that he had a gun, and demanded money from the till. The Walmart employee handed over the money, and the man left the store with an undisclosed amount of cash. Complete article


Knox County Tenn. Sheriff’s Office searching for suspect connected to Halls Walmart fire 12/29/2020

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Knox County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect who allegedly set a fire in a Halls Walmart while around 100 people were in the store back in mid-December.

Justin Ueckert, who KCSO says is a person experiencing homelessness and tends to camp in the woods along Highway 33 in Knox County, is the suspect in question.

Ueckhert is 5’2″, and weighs 145 lbs. He’s charged with aggravated arson, and burglary. Complete article

Search ends for man accused of setting fire inside Halls community Walmart 01/01/2021


Walmart Called Josh Hawley A ‘Sore Loser’ On Twitter, Then Deleted It 12/30/2020

A tweet from the official Walmart Twitter account called Republican Missouri Senator Josh Hawley a “sore loser” Wednesday before being quickly deleted.

Hawley tweeted a statement that he would be objecting to the electoral college certification process in the Senate on Jan. 6. Walmart responded, saying: “Go ahead. Get your 2 hour debate. #SoreLoser.”

It’s possible the tweet was the result of a mixing up of accounts, although Walmart has not offered an explanation of the incident yet at this time. Social media managers have accidentally tweeted inappropriately from corporate accounts in the past, thinking they were tweeting from a personal account. Complete article

Walmart apologizes for tweet calling Sen. Hawley sore loser 12/30/2020 Still, Hawley responded to Walmart with his own tweets Wednesday, asking the company if it would “apologize for using slave labor,” and for the “pathetic wages you pay your workers as you drive mom and pop stores out of business.”




Walmart to Use Driverless Trucks With No Safety Backup in 2021 12/29/2020

Walmart has been quietly working on driverless trucks. Implementation is at hand.

Walmart Goes Driverless in 2021

Please note Walmart to Utilize Fully Driverless Trucks in 2021.
Walmart will use fully autonomous box trucks to make deliveries in Arkansas starting in 2021. The big-box retailer has been working with a startup called Gatik on a delivery pilot for 18 months. Next year, the two companies plan on taking their partnership to the next level by removing the safety driver from their autonomous box trucks. Next year, the companies intend to start incorporating fully autonomous trucks into those deliveries. And they plan on expanding to a second location in Louisiana, where trucks with safety drivers will begin delivering items from a “live” Walmart Supercenter to a designated pickup location where customers can retrieve their orders. Those routes, which will begin next year, will be longer than the Arkansas operation — 20-miles between New Orleans and Metairie, Louisiana. Walmart is working with a variety of self-driving companies in its search for the best fit for the company’s massive retail and delivery operations. In addition to Gatik, the big-box company is working with Waymo, Cruise, Nuro, Udelv, Baidu, Ford, and Postmates.
Complete article


South Euclid Ohio police: WalMart worker attempted to steal nearly $6k in Apple Watches 12/28/2020

Walmart provided 16 million pounds of food to Indiana food banks this year 12/28/2020

Walmart Supercenter in San Jacinto Ca. closes 2 days for deep clean 12/2/2020

Bryan Tx. Walmart on Briarcrest closing today at 2 p.m. 12/28/2020

Pawhuska Man Charged with Indecent Exposure for Okla. Walmart Incident 12/28/2020

Lodi Ca. Walmart closes for COVID-19-related deep cleaning 12/28/2020

Two Issued Summons After Stealing from Ind. Walmart 12/28/2020

Bomb Threat At Greenville Tx. Walmart 12/29/2020

Logan Utah Police look for victim groped by man in Walmart 12/29/2020

Woman's body found inside vehicle at Elkton Md. Walmart 12/31/2020

ELKTON - The body of a Cecil County woman who had been reported missing was found inside a vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart in Elkton on Wednesday night, according to the Elkton Police Department.

Investigators were withholding the name of the deceased 57-year-old North East woman on Thursday morning, pending the confirmation of next-of-kin notifications, EPD Chief Carolyn Rogers told the Cecil Whig.

"There is no evidence of foul play and her death is attributed to natural causes," Rogers said, further reporting that the woman's physician signed her death certificate.

EPD officers responded to the Walmart Supercenter in the 1000 block of East Pulaski Highway (Route 40) at approximately 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, in connection with a "missing person investigation," and they discovered the deceased woman inside a parked vehicle, shortly after she had been reported missing, police reported.

"The North East Police Department had just taken a report for a missing 57-year-old woman from North East. She was reported missing by a friend. That same friend located her vehicle in the parking lot of the Elkton Walmart," Rogers outlined.

Video gleaned from store surveillance cameras last showed the woman exiting the Walmart that morning, according to police. Complete article


Trio faces felonies in Nevada Walmart raid 12/31/2020

A trio wrapped up after a Boxing Day raid on the Topsy Walmart appeared in East Fork Justice Court on Monday.

Nathan Ki Neal, 23, Joshua Tyler Steen, 29, and Cady Shea Romano, 27, allegedly stole items from the Walmart on Saturday afternoon.

According to court documents they were all three in a brown vehicle that was spotted in front of the World Market in the neighboring shopping center.

Upon spotting the deputy, Neal allegedly drove off and out of the parking lot onto Highway 395. The deputy activated his lights and followed the vehicle into the parking lot of the Jacks Valley Target. He ordered them out of the vehicle at gunpoint. Complete article


Nurse sick with COVID orders groceries, driver steals groceries, Alabama Walmart refuses refund 12/30/2020

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Jennifer Lilly, a nurse fighting COVID-19 while also homeschooling her children chose Walmart for a convenient, safe, and quick grocery order of $163. The driver never showed up and now Lilly can’t seem to get her money back or her order refilled without having to pay what she already paid for.

“I’ve used this all year because my daughter is immunocompromised. I didn’t want to go shopping and expose her to COVID,” said Lilly who is also fighting COVID-19. “I had a fever of close to 103. So I was pretty much in bed all weekend.”

Lilly placed her grocery order Tuesday. The order says it was supposed to arrive just before 6:30 p.m. There was no indication the delivery would not arrive as a driver, Hailey was assigned according to Lilly’s order. .....

“If they’re going [to] use people to deliver, they should know who they are. Have their proper ID. I’m sure that’s not her real name,” said Lilly who may not be alone in her ordeal. Various “What’s Happening In” Facebook groups indicate other people have lost their grocery order to a “Hailey”.

NEWS 19 reached out to Walmart through their corporate public relations team. We never heard back after asking several questions. As it stands, if Walmart and their 3rd-party delivery service fails to deliver to you, they may not refund or refill your order if it is stolen.

Lilly filed a police report. Lilly told NEWS 19 the Walmart employee she spoke to, seemed to acknowledge the theft of grocery deliveries happens more than one might think. Complete article

Walmart launches investigation after groceries ordered by nurse sick with COVID stolen by driver 12/31/2020 Walmart said it is refilling an order of groceries for a nurse who said she never received a grocery delivery she ordered while recovering at home from COVID-19. The retailer also gave Jennifer Lilly a $100 gift card and said it would launch an investigation into the delivery driver.


Walmart store in Midland Mich. closing Wednesday for 40-hour deep clean 12/30/2020

State College Pa. police search for suspect in Walmart theft 12/30/2020

2 Orange County Ca. Walmart Supercenters Close For COVID Sanitization 12/29/2020

Montoursville Pa. WalMart evacuated for gas leak 12/30/2020

Opelika Alabama Police release surveillance footage of suspects in Walmart theft, credit fraud case 12/30/2020

Police presence at Ill. Walmart 12/30/2020 Police said a Walmart store is now clear after they responded to a possible bomb threat earlier Wednesday night.

Walmart puts its workers on shots list 12/31/2020

Woman wanted for walking out of Walmart with full shopping cart in Marion County 12/30/2020

Manning SC Police Chief gives all clear to Walmart after suspicious package scare 12/31/2020

Missing Volusia Fla. teen last seen getting into Lyft at Walmart 12/31/2020 Emily Gustafsson may have run away from home

Woman arrested after allegedly switching UPC codes at Wal-Mart at Buffalo Ridge 12/31/2020

Walmart temporarily closes Weatherford Okla. store for cleaning 12/31/2020

Man arrested after allegedly stealing from La. Walmart employee 12/31/2020

Delta Colorado Walmart evacuated; police say no more threat at this time 12/31/2020



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