Arlington Mayor Cited for Shoplifting Incident at Memphis Mall, Calls Situation a “Misunderstanding”

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (BuzzReport) — The mayor of Arlington, Tennessee, was cited for misdemeanor shoplifting after an incident at a Memphis-area department store over the weekend, according to law enforcement records.

Police say Michael Wissman, 54, was issued a citation Friday afternoon after allegedly attempting to take merchandise from a store without paying. The incident occurred at a Dillard’s location inside the Wolfchase Galleria in the Cordova area.

According to the Memphis Police Department, officers were dispatched to the store at approximately 3:15 p.m. after receiving a report of a suspected shoplifting in progress. Upon arrival, officers were informed that a man—later identified as Wissman—had attempted to leave the store with a pair of Chubbies brand shorts valued at approximately $70 without paying.

Authorities said Wissman was issued a misdemeanor citation at the scene. No arrest was made.

In a public statement following the incident, Wissman described the situation as a misunderstanding and expressed appreciation for how it was handled.

“While I was shopping at Dillard’s on Friday, there was an unfortunate misunderstanding,” Wissman said. “I appreciate the professionalism and courtesy of those involved. I look forward to resolving this issue.”

No additional details about the circumstances leading up to the incident have been released, and it remains unclear whether further legal action will follow.

Wissman, who serves as mayor of Arlington, has not indicated whether he plans to address the matter further publicly.