Pennsylvania coronavirus 'prank' suspect arrested, charged after $35K in groceries tossed
03/29/2020 12:47 pm PDT
via WITI:
HANOVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WITI) -- Authorities in Pennsylvania identified the suspect accused of coughing on an estimated $35,000 worth of grocery store products in what they said was a “twisted prank” amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Margaret Cirko, 35, was arrested and charged with terrorist threats Thursday, March 26, one day after she allegedly entered Gerrity's Supermarket in Hanover Township, made verbal threats that she was sick and intentionally coughed and spat on fresh produce and other items, according to the Hanover Township Police Department.
Cirko, known for past problems in the community, continued the behavior in several aisles, police said, adding that she tried to steal a 12-pack of beer before being ordered to leave the store.
TRUE CRIME DAILY: Coronavirus-related crime coverage - TCD
Joe Fasula, the store's co-owner, wrote in a Facebook post on Wednesday, saying Cirko coughed on the store's fresh produce as well as portions of its bakery, meat case and grocery shelves in what he called “a twisted prank.”
Cirko wasn't believed to be infected with the coronavirus, but the owner said they had no choice but to throw away “well over” $35,000 in product.
She was eventually arrested and charged with two felony counts of terrorist threats, one felony count of threats to use a “biological agent” and one felony count of criminal mischief. She also faces misdemeanor counts of criminal attempt to commit retail theft and disorderly conduct, police said.
MORE: Pennsylvania coughing 'prank' suspect arrested, charged after $35K in groceries tossed - WITI
