A heated confrontation unfolded at a Walmart in Flagler County, Florida, culminating in the arrest of a 37-year-old man for allegedly spitting on an employee. The altercation stemmed from the man’s attempt to return baby formula without a receipt.
Surveillance footage captures the tense moments as the suspect, later identified as Channing Cooks, engages in a verbal dispute with the employee at the customer service counter. The footage shows Cooks becoming increasingly agitated before lunging towards the employee.
Surveillance footage of an altercation between a customer and an employee at a Walmart store in Flagler County, Florida.
Witnesses reported that Cooks became enraged after being informed of the store’s policy requiring a receipt for returns. Despite the employee’s attempts to explain the situation, Cooks allegedly resorted to spitting in her face.
Responding officers arrived promptly and apprehended Cooks outside the store. Bodycam footage documents the arrest, revealing Cooks’ persistent denial of the allegations and his attempts to justify his actions.
Cooks repeatedly insists that he merely sneezed, claiming that the employee was within his personal space. However, the employee provides a contrasting account, alleging that Cooks intentionally spat on her multiple times after being refused the return.
Bodycam footage of a police officer talking to a man in handcuffs outside a Walmart store.
During his exchange with the police, Cooks launches into a series of insults and derogatory remarks directed at the officers. Despite their attempts to maintain professionalism, Cooks continues his tirade, making offensive comments about their appearance, families, and even suggesting that one officer should be investigated for child pornography.
As the officers transport Cooks to jail, he expresses remorse for his outburst and apologizes for his offensive language. He reveals that he is a youth pastor and admits that his behavior contradicted his values.
Cooks was booked into the Flagler County Jail on a battery charge. Due to prior convictions, his charge was later upgraded to a felony. The case is ongoing.
