The St. Augustine Police Department has charged Theodore Tundidor with multiple offenses, including kidnapping, false imprisonment, and robbery, following an incident that occurred on June 29 at a local smoke shop. In a violent twist, Tundidor allegedly attempted to kidnap Emma, another employee who was female. Meanwhile, he tried to steal product from the store.
As reported by North Miami Beach police officers, Tundidor walked into the smoke shop and stole products from behind the counter. Emma stood up to him, hoping to stop the shoplifting. According to the lawsuit, during this struggle, Tundidor pushed her out of the store and then choked her. Witnesses described watching him pull Emma toward his car.
A passerby witnessed the entire episode unfold and rushed to call 911. There’s a woman being assaulted,” they testified, sending law enforcement running to the rescue. In the meantime, Tundidor was still trying to get Emma to get into his truck, which police later discovered was stolen.
Police were able to find Tundidor soon after the shooting thanks to her high-speed getaway. He was soon apprehended and readily admitted to the armed robbery and attempted abduction. He precociously asserted that he shoplifted from Emma and the store “simultaneously.” Investigators looked at time-stamped surveillance video from the smoke shop, corroborating the account of the alleged attack as well as Tundidor’s flight from the scene.
Emma recounted her experience, stating, “I got in his way so he wouldn’t leave with the product,” highlighting her bravery during the encounter. The shooting Tundidor had several other non-lethal charges filed against him for his actions that day.
