ROLLA, Mo. — A man was taken into custody Saturday following an alleged theft involving a weapon, according to the Rolla Police Department (RPD).
Sean Michael Wildhaber, 23, of Rolla, reportedly entered a local business in the 600 block of West Fourth Street, grabbed two bags of Tyson chicken, and attempted to leave without paying.
When confronted by a store employee, Wildhaber allegedly pulled out a knife and threatened the employee, citing hunger as a reason for the theft. A nearby truck driver intervened, displaying a holstered firearm, prompting Wildhaber to drop the knife and walk away.
Wildhaber was later arrested at his residence. Police said he admitted to taking the chicken and claimed he had “traded” the knife for food. Officers also noted the smell of intoxicants during questioning.
He faces First-Degree Robbery and Armed Criminal Action charges and was booked into Phelps County Jail without bond.
“Violent crimes and the use of weapons in our community will not be tolerated,” said Rolla Police Chief Sean Fagan. “These incidents will be investigated swiftly, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
