A man from Salt Lake City has landed in serious trouble after allegedly robbing a gas station—with a knife—all for a few Slim Jims. The incident, both unusual and dangerous, happened Monday evening and has raised concerns about rising petty crimes linked to drug use.
Slim Jims and a Knife: The Shocking Robbery
Police say 46-year-old William B. Brown entered a Maverik gas station near 500 East and 300 South carrying three Slim Jim meat sticks and a lighter. Instead of paying, Brown allegedly walked up to the counter, placed the items down, then returned holding a two-inch silver knife. He reportedly grabbed the Slim Jims and lighter and walked out.
Surveillance footage from the store shows Brown’s odd movements—first approaching the register calmly, then coming back with what looked like a blade in hand. Authorities believe this was an intentional act of intimidation.
What the Police Found
After obtaining a search warrant, police found box cutter blades, a lighter, burnt straws, and a used syringe in Brown’s possession. These items are commonly linked to drug use, which may have played a role in the crime.
Brown was arrested on the spot and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail. He faces a first-degree felony charge of aggravated robbery—a very serious crime, even though the stolen goods were worth just a few hundred rupees. He’s also been charged with drug possession, a second-degree misdemeanor.
Held Without Bail
Due to the violent nature of the robbery and the drug-related items found, police requested that Brown be held without bail. At the time of reporting, he remains in custody.
Why This Story Matters
While the items stolen may seem small—just a few meat sticks—the use of a weapon changes everything. In Utah, aggravated robbery is treated as a major crime, regardless of the value of the stolen goods. The case also highlights how drug addiction can lead people to make desperate and dangerous decisions.
