Danville Man Arrested for Stealing Tip Jar from Ma's Cakes

Suspect released on unsecured bond after alleged theft on Friday afternoon

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A 44-year-old Danville man named Ryan Oneil McKinnon was arrested on Friday for allegedly stealing the tip jar from a local dessert shop called Ma's Cakes. The incident occurred around 4:30 pm, and McKinnon was later located and charged with petit larceny before being released from jail on an unsecured bond.

Why it matters

Theft of small business tip jars is a common problem that can significantly impact the livelihoods of local merchants and their employees who rely on those tips. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges small businesses face in protecting their revenue streams and maintaining a sense of community trust.

The details

According to the Danville Police Department, McKinnon entered Ma's Cakes on Main Street on Friday afternoon and stole the tip jar, which contained an undisclosed amount of money. He was later located and arrested on the charge of petit larceny.

  • The incident occurred around 4:30 pm on Friday, February 9, 2026.
  • McKinnon was released from the Danville City Jail on an unsecured bond.

The players

Ryan Oneil McKinnon

A 44-year-old Danville resident who was arrested and charged with petit larceny for allegedly stealing a tip jar from a local dessert shop.

Ma's Cakes

A dessert shop located on Main Street in Danville, Virginia that had its tip jar stolen by the suspect.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of small businesses being able to protect their revenue streams, especially from petty theft that can significantly impact their bottom line and community trust. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to support and safeguard local merchants in Danville and beyond.