Authorities Called To Deal With Bizarre Criminal Trespass

Palm Bay Police arrested a man in a Ronald McDonald costume after a heated scuffle at a local shopping center, raising several charges against him.

Key Takeaways

Christopher Marlowe was clad in a Ronald McDonald costume at the time of his arrest.
The incident took place at Interchange Plaza in Palm Bay, Florida.
Marlowe faces charges of misdemeanor trespassing and felony resisting arrest with violence.
Police found a stash of additional clown attire and an orange replica gun in his possession.
An arraignment is scheduled for April 17 with a $5,500 bond set.

Unexpected Arrest at Interchange Plaza

On March 27, 2025, Palm Bay authorities apprehended 40-year-old Christopher Marlowe at the Interchange Plaza. Marlowe, who had once been banned from the location, returned in an ostentatious Ronald McDonald costume. His presence and antics quickly caught the attention of both the public and law enforcement.

During the incident, Marlowe was seen parading around the center, vocal and disruptive. As law enforcement intervened, Marlowe’s interaction with the officers turned contentious, escalating to physical resistance. Despite his attempts to evade arrest using profane rants, officers managed to handcuff and subdue him.

Confrontation and Arrest

Police bodycam footage reveals Marlowe aggressively resisting arrest. Officers succeeded in securing him after a brief struggle. Marlowe was discovered to have additional clown costumes, red noses, and an orange replica firearm in his possession. The Palm Bay Police Department noted their caution and adherence to protocol in handling the situation.

This incident drew reactions on social media, particularly due to the Ronald McDonald attire. The Palm Bay Police shared the footage with a humorous jab at the circumstances, writing, “What do you call someone who returns to a shopping plaza after they’ve been Trespassed? …a clown.”

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Marlowe faces misdemeanor trespassing and felony charges for resisting officers with violence. He currently resides in the Brevard County Jail with a bond set at $5,500. His arraignment is scheduled for April 17, and his past convictions reflect a history of legal skirmishes, including a recent sentencing for methamphetamine possession. Marlowe’s legal record presents a pattern of criminal behavior regarded as a concern by the local community.

Authorities have expressed hope that the upcoming legal proceedings will address the recurring issues linked to Marlowe’s activities. Allegations such as violence or disruptive behavior cause concern, requiring a firm response to ensure public safety and order.