A Florida man working as a Salvation Army bell ringer for the holidays was arrested Christmas week after he allegedly attempted to “impale” the manager of a grocery store with his donation kettle tripod, according to officials.
Steven Pavlik, 63, was arrested at his home this week and charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest after he fled after allegedly drunkenly attacking the manager of a Publix in Stuart, Florida.
Pavlik had been stationed as a bell ringer outside the store.
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Sixty-three-year-old Pavlik allegedly got into a verbal altercation with the manager, which escalated when he tried to attack him with the tripod. The manager was not injured.
According to an arrest affidavit, Pavlik smelled of alcohol and admitted to drinking before the incident. He resisted officers when they attempted to arrest him, the affidavit states.
Pavlik is being held at the Martin County Jail on $12,000 bail.
Florida Man arrested for Allegedly Stealing Groceries, Throwing Items at Publix Employees
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A Florida man was arrested on December 27, 2024, after allegedly stealing groceries from a Publix supermarket and afterward throwing items at employees when confronted. The incident occurred in Palm Coast, Florida, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Incident
deputies responded to a call at the Publix located at 47 Old Kings Road North in Palm Coast around 6:30 PM on Friday. Upon arrival, they learned that 34-year-old joshua Goodson had allegedly filled a shopping cart with groceries and attempted to leave the store without paying. When confronted by employees, Goodson reportedly became aggressive and began throwing groceries at them.
“This individual’s actions were not only criminal but also put our Publix employees in danger,” said Sheriff Rick Staly in a press release. “our deputies quickly apprehended him, and he is now facing the consequences for his behavior. We are grateful for the fast actions of the Publix employees who contacted us immediately.”
Goodson was taken into custody without further incident. He is charged with petit theft and battery. He is currently being held at the Flagler County Jail.
Previous Encounters with Law Enforcement
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, Goodson has a history of prior arrests, including charges of theft and disorderly conduct. His previous record contributed to the severity of the current charges.
Response from Publix and the Salvation Army
Publix and the salvation Army, which often partners with Publix for food drives and charitable initiatives, did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident.
Key Takeaways
- Joshua Goodson, 34, was arrested for petit theft and battery at a Publix in Palm Coast, Florida.
- The arrest occurred after Goodson allegedly stole groceries and threw items at employees who confronted him.
- Goodson has a prior criminal record, including previous theft charges.
- The Flagler County sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by retail employees and the importance of swift law enforcement response to ensure their safety. Authorities will continue to investigate and prosecute individuals who engage in criminal behavior that endangers others.