Three Birmingham hairstylists have been arrested following a viral video showing them allegedly holding a customer hostage over a $50 dispute.
Aissatou Camara, Julia Ondo, and Gwladys Nzinga-Koumba face charges after police say they locked a client inside the salon “Mama’s Gifted Hands” during the confrontation.
The incident involved customer Jessica Odom, who had just received $200 boho knotless braids. Odom says she was satisfied with the service and had confirmation via text from the salon owner regarding the agreed-upon price.
However, after handing over her payment, the stylist who performed the braids allegedly claimed Odom still owed $50.
Alleged Altercation
Odom attempted to explain that she had already paid in full, but the women reportedly refused to let her leave.
Video footage from the incident, which is now viral, shows the stylists allegedly holding Odom by her scalp in an effort to prevent her exit. The confrontation lasted more than an hour before police arrived to deescalate the situation.
Responding officers informed the braiders that they could be liable for assault and kidnapping.
Odom later told reporters, “I did not try to escalate the situation. I just tried to deescalate, and that is also what made me pull out my camera.”
The salon has declined to comment on the incident, according to The Neighborhood Talk.
Legal and Public Response
The three women are currently facing charges related to the incident.
The case has drawn widespread attention online, sparking discussions about customer safety, workplace accountability, and professional conduct in the beauty industry.
Legal experts note that even minor disputes over payment can quickly escalate into criminal matters when physical restraint is involved.
The incident drums home the importance of clear communication and documentation in service-based industries, especially when cash transactions or large payments are involved.
Odom has said she does not intend to return to the salon.
“Safe to say I don’t want ‘Mama’ or her staff’s hands in my hair again,” she said.
