A dispute over a simple plastic shopping bag escalated into a shocking confrontation at a New Jersey convenience store, where a clerk allegedly brandished a machete at a customer following a heated exchange.
What Happened at the Cottage Market
According to police and local news reports, the incident took place on January 27 at the Cottage Market in New Jersey. The conflict reportedly began when a customer, after paying for a plastic shopping bag, asked the clerk to double-bag her items to prevent them from tearing during her walk home.
However, 29-year-old Melvin F. Rodriguez-Duran, the store clerk, refused the request. This led to a tense exchange, during which the customer allegedly told the clerk that she would send her family members to hurt him.
In response, Rodriguez-Duran reportedly left the counter area, emerged holding a machete, and ordered the customer and her companion to leave the store immediately. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.
Charges Filed Against the Clerk
Police were called to the scene for a harassment complaint. Upon arrival, officers reviewed surveillance footage of the incident, which confirmed key parts of the customer’s report.
Rodriguez-Duran was subsequently charged with:
- Third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
- Fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon
His identity was confirmed and released by Patch.com. The clerk was not taken into custody but was released on his own recognizance pending a court appearance scheduled for March.
Understanding the Charges
In New Jersey, third-degree charges like possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose can carry a potential prison sentence of 3 to 5 years if convicted. Fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon may result in up to 18 months of jail time. However, outcomes can vary depending on the court’s findings and whether the individual has a criminal history.
Why This Story Has Caught Attention
The case has sparked online conversations about customer-clerk interactions and how quickly small disagreements—like over a plastic bag—can spiral into threats and potential violence. While the customer’s alleged verbal threat was clearly serious, the clerk’s reaction involving a weapon has led to criminal charges and legal consequences.
