NORWOOD – An argument over a cash-back transaction at a local supermarket escalated into a physical altercation between an employee and a customer, resulting in a police response but no immediate criminal charges.
According to a report released by the Norwood Police Department, officers were dispatched to the Stop & Shop at approximately 8:03 a.m. on December 1st following reports of a fight. Upon arrival, officers found that the parties involved, identified in the police report as employee Regina Weaver and customer Jessica Paul, had already been separated.
According to witness statements, police say customer Jessica Paul requested a cash-back transaction. Regina Weaver, the cashier, reportedly had to request additional funds from the store manager to complete the request.
Police say Jessica became frustrated with the process, leading to a verbal exchange. However, accounts of how the situation turned physical differ significantly between the two parties.
Regina (the employee) told police Jessica began verbally insulting her and claimed she attempted to walk away from the register, but Jessica followed her. Regina alleged that Jessica began hitting and pushing her, eventually knocking her backward to the ground.
Jessica (the customer) told officers she has had past issues with Regina. Police say she claims Regina said, “Let’s settle this right now.” Jessica admitted to pushing Regina but argued it was in self-defense after they began hitting each other, according to the police report.
Police say another employee attempted to keep the two women separated during the argument. The store’s manager advised police that Jessica Paul has been trespassed and is no longer welcome on the property. Regina Weaver was sent home for the remainder of the day.
Three days later, on December 4th, police officers returned to the store and reviewed the surveillance footage. According to their police report, officers observed both Regina and Jessica walking toward each other and began pushing and hitting one another. The altercation ends with Regina falling backward onto the floor.
Based on the conflicting statements and the video footage showing mutual engagement, the Norwood Police determined it was “not clear who the primary aggressor is.” Both Jessica and Regina were advised that the report is on file and that they may seek out charges individually at court if they wish to pursue the matter further. -RD