Tennessee Man Attempts Convenience Store Robbery Using 5-Foot Snake as Weapon: Cops

Reginald Cook was arrested after he tried to rob a store with a snake around his neck, police said.Memphis Police Department; Unsplash

Police say a Tennessee man has been arrested after he allegedly tried to rob a store on two different occasions, including one time where he used a five-foot snake as a weapon.

Around 2 a.m. on April 15, Reginald Cook, 26, reportedly walked into a Shell convenience store in Memphis and made a purchase, according to arrest reports obtained by WREG.

About 30 minutes later, Cook returned to the store and demanded money, police said. The clerk thought Cook had a weapon, as he kept reaching into his clothing.

The clerk refused to open the cashier, so police said Cook left.

However, Cook returned about 35 minutes later. This time, he entered the store with a five-foot snake around his neck, officials said.

Cook reportedly went to the counter and yelled, “Give me the damn money,” according to authorities.

The cashier called 911 and pulled out his own gun, officials said.

Police arrived minutes later and arrested Cook. No money was taken and no one was injured.

Officers said Cook was in possession of a railroad spike and rock. They also seized the snake, officials said.

Never miss a story — sign up for the Front Page Detectives newsletter. Be on the scene the moment news breaks.

Cook was charged with attempted aggravated robbery and his bond was set at $4,000.

According to WREG, the owner of Shell said Cook’s family came to the store on April 16 and apologized and offered to pay for any damages.