Image source: Exterior of a Sheetz, featured on sheetz.com.
A former Sheetz employee has pleaded no contest to sexually assaulting a then 14-year-old girl inside the bathroom of the store where he worked. In 2023, he was charged with “rape, statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors, according to court documents filed in Cumberland County.” (Public Opinion)
Assault Occurred at Shippensburg Sheetz
Demarcus Johnson of Shippensburg was arrested on March 2, 2023, in connection with an October 30, 2022, incident at the Sheetz located at 359 E. King Street in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.
Police and EMS responded to a report around 9 p.m. of a teenage girl found unconscious in the Sheetz restroom with clear signs of physical distress.She was transported to a hospital for evaluation.
The girl had consumed alcohol earlier in the evening and entered the store in an impaired state. Video surveillance reportedly showed her having a brief interaction with Johnson before walking toward the restroom area. Johnson followed her and was seen going in and out of the men’s bathroom several times. The girl did not leave the restroom on her own and was ultimately removed by emergency personnel.
In a later interview with investigators, the girl reported drifting in and out of consciousness during the incident. She told police she woke up inside the restroom as Johnson was sexually assaulting her and recalled being pushed against the bathroom wall with her pants around her knees. (Public Opinion) She described feeling numb, afraid, and in pain.
Johnson, who was employed at the store at the time, was charged in March 2023 with multiple offenses, including rape, statutory sexual assault, and corruption of minors. He was fired by Sheetz.
Plea Entered Before Trial
The evening before the trial, which was set for Monday, June 2, 2025, Johnson entered a no contest plea for sexual assault. According to PennLive, “Six related offenses were dismissed, including rape by forcible compulsion.” The sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for September 23, 2025, and will be overseen by Judge Jessica Brewbaker.
Could Sheetz Be Held Responsible?
Johnson’s criminal plea does not prevent potential civil claims against Sheetz.
A civil suit would outline how Sheetz potentially failed to supervise or train staff adequately, ignored warning signs or prior misconduct, or lacked proper safety protocols to protect minors on store property. Johnson’s felony conviction—entered through a no contest plea—may serve as a basis for a civil lawsuit filed by the survivor.
Support for Survivors
At Andreozzi + Foote, we advocate for survivors of sexual abuse and fight to hold institutions, including businesses like Sheetz, accountable when they fail to protect those in their care.
We recognize the courage it takes to speak out. That’s why we approach every case with compassion, discretion, and unwavering support, helping survivors to seek the justice and healing they deserve.
If you or someone you care about was harmed by an employee of Sheetz or another business entrusted with public safety, we encourage you to reach out.
Contact us today to speak with an attorney and explore your legal options.
