Man Arrested After Falsely Reporting Armed Robbery at Walmart in Albany

On March 20, 2025, at approximately 12:10 PM, deputies responded to Walmart on Ledo Road after receiving a report of an armed robbery. The alleged victim, Tyler Chase Douglas, claimed that he had been approached at gunpoint, robbed of his cash, and watched as the suspect casually walked away. He even went back to work before calling 911.

However, an investigation quickly revealed the story was fabricated. Thanks to surveillance footage, Flock Safety data, and diligent police work, it was determined that Douglas had never been at Walmart during the time of the reported robbery. As the investigation continued, Douglas altered his story several times, first claiming the incident was part of a scam near Sylvester Road, and later asserting that he had been robbed in Albany, GA.

Douglas was arrested for false report of a crime and false statements and writings. His actions diverted valuable law enforcement resources from real emergencies, highlighting the consequences of making false reports. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public to only contact 911 for genuine emergencies, emphasizing that making false claims could lead to criminal charges.

Douglas is currently in custody, and the investigation remains ongoing.