Customer Arrested After Attacking Employee at Joliet Pancake House

Police say the incident was unprovoked and the customer refused to comply with officers' commands.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 65-year-old customer at the Old-Fashioned Pancake House in Joliet, Illinois was arrested on Saturday after allegedly striking an employee of the restaurant. According to police, the customer, Robert Weathers, slapped a wallet out of the employee's hand twice before punching the employee in the chest. Weathers refused to comply with officers' commands and was taken into custody following a brief struggle.

Why it matters

Incidents of customer violence against restaurant staff have become more common in recent years, raising concerns about worker safety and the need for improved de-escalation training and security measures in the industry.

The details

Police say the incident occurred around 2:05 pm on Saturday at the Old-Fashioned Pancake House in Joliet. Weathers allegedly struck the employee after the employee checked on him for not paying his bill. Surveillance video showed Weathers slapping the wallet out of the employee's hand twice before punching the employee in the chest. Weathers was charged with battery and obstructing a peace officer.

  • The incident occurred around 2:05 pm on Saturday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Robert Weathers

A 65-year-old customer at the Old-Fashioned Pancake House who was arrested for allegedly attacking an employee.

Old-Fashioned Pancake House

A breakfast and brunch restaurant in Joliet, Illinois that has been in operation since 1988.

Joliet Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the customer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The incident was unprovoked.”

— Dwayne English, Joliet Police Spokesman (Patch.com)

What’s next

Weathers was taken to the Joliet Police Department for processing and later released on a notice to appear in court.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing problem of customer violence against restaurant staff, which has become more common in recent years. It underscores the need for improved de-escalation training and security measures to protect workers in the industry.