Criminal Sparks Legal Trouble In One Community While Disguised

Police car roof with red and blue lights.

In a bizarre twist, a Florida man dressed in a Ronald McDonald clown costume finds himself in serious trouble with the law.

Key Takeaways

Christopher Marlowe, 40, was arrested while dressed as a clown in a Ronald McDonald costume.
The incident occurred at a shopping center in Palm Bay, Florida, where Marlowe had been previously banned.
Police bodycam footage shows Marlowe struggling with officers before being subdued and handcuffed.
An orange replica gun and several clown outfits and red noses were found on Marlowe.
Marlowe is charged with misdemeanor trespassing and felony resisting officers with violence.

The Arrest

Christopher Marlowe, a 40-year-old man, was apprehended by Palm Bay authorities in Florida on March 27, 2025. Wearing a Ronald McDonald clown costume, Marlowe’s antics did not go unnoticed at a local shopping center. Police detained him after he reportedly trespassed on the premises and resisted arrest.

Marlowe’s comical yet alarming attire included additional clown garments and several red noses. An orange replica gun found in his pocket heightened the officers’ alertness during the arrest.

Details of the Encounter

Marlowe’s previous offenses include a criminal record of trespassing, resisting arrest, and possession of drugs. Police discovered he was already banned from the shopping center, making his return more significant. The colorful disturbance culminated in a physical altercation with the responding officers.

Despite warnings, Marlowe grew aggressive and hurled profanities before police subdued him. Struggling against law enforcement only complicated his legal predicament.

Legal Ramifications

Currently, Marlowe faces charges of misdemeanor trespass and felony resisting arrest with violence. His bail is set at $5,500, and he awaits his arraignment on April 17. Previously, Marlowe served 65 days in jail related to methamphetamine and paraphernalia possession.

Marlowe’s background reveals a struggle with legal issues, evident in past charges of trespass, resisting arrest, and drug possession. Law enforcement remains vigilant in enforcing public safety measures to prevent recurrences of such disruptive public behavior.