COLUMBIA POLICE DEPARTMENT ARREST FLORIDA MAN FOR ROBBERY, 2ND DEGREE
The Columbia Police Department was dispatched to Walmart on June 17, 2026, at approximately 9:16 a.m. (CST) regarding a male subject who had allegedly concealed unpaid merchandise while inside the store. As the subject attempted to exit the store, he reportedly made physical contact with and pushed a Walmart employee who was attempting to intervene.
Officers quickly responded to the area and located the suspect at a nearby business. The subject was taken into custody without incident.
Ja’Michael Antonio Butler, 28, of Lauderhill, Florida was arrested and charged with Robbery, 2nd Degree.
The arrest was made by Columbia Assistant Chief Drew Conn. He was assisted by Lieutenant Justin Cross and Chief Evan Burton.
