Sanford, FL – A Florida 7-Eleven clerk was arrested after allegedly locking a customer inside the store during a verbal argument, Seminole County authorities said. The incident highlights a rare but serious confrontation between retail staff and patrons in the Orlando metro area.
Incident Details
According to Seminole County court records, 49-year-old Mike Whigham faces one count of kidnapping by false imprisonment. The events unfolded at a 7-Eleven on South Orlando Drive in Sanford on September 15.
The customer reportedly entered the store to purchase a Black & Mild, a small flavored cigar, while the clerk was cleaning and did not immediately assist him. The situation quickly escalated into a verbal argument, during which Whigham allegedly told the man to leave the store or “he would have him trespassed and sent to jail.”
Alleged Lock-In and 911 Call
Police say the customer claimed that Whigham locked the front door and prevented him from leaving while on the phone with 911. After the customer accused the clerk of kidnapping, Whigham unlocked the door and waited for law enforcement to arrive.
“During the argument I observed the defendant
leave from behind the cashier counter and walk to the front door, lock the front door, and then physically stand in front of the door pulling the door shut to prevent the customer from exiting, while on the phone with 911,” a Sanford Police Department officer wrote in the arrest report. “The customer was locked in the store for approximately one minute and thirty seconds.”
The customer had recorded the encounter, and police confirmed that the video supported his narrative. In the footage, the customer says:
“You can’t lock me in no store man. You crazy as hell.”
Defendant’s Account
Whigham was Mirandized and interviewed by police. According to the arrest report, he admitted to locking the door but said he was scared something might happen and intended only to hold the customer until law enforcement arrived. He unlocked the door after realizing his action was wrong.
Legal Proceedings
The clerk was released on $5,000 bail on September 19. He is scheduled for arraignment on November 4 in Seminole County court. Authorities noted that the customer wished to press charges, which aligns with the seriousness of the allegation despite the brief duration of the lock-in.
Community and Safety Reminder
Officials remind both store employees and patrons to remain calm during disputes and to contact authorities immediately instead of taking potentially dangerous actions. Even brief confinement or physical obstruction can lead to criminal charges, as demonstrated in this case.
Conclusion
While the incident lasted only around 90 seconds, it has sparked concern over employee-customer conflicts in retail settings. Authorities continue to urge safety, clear communication, and adherence to the law to prevent similar events.
What do you think about this unusual confrontation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
