MIDDLESBORO — The Middlesboro Police Department (MPD) arrested a local man on Monday for allegedly stealing an automotive mirror from Walmart, and then using the stolen item to peep on male customers in the facility’s restroom.

Timothy Wayne Posey, 32, of Middlesboro was arrested and charged with voyeurism, second degree disorderly conduct, and theft by unlawful taking (shoplifting).

MPD Detective Joe Holder said a member of Walmart’s loss-prevention team placed a call into the Police Department on Monday claiming that a man was observed stealing an automotive mirror and random food items, including a can of ravioli and a can of tuna fish.

According to Holder, Posey was taking the items into one of the stalls in the men’s bathroom — in an attempt to thieve the merchandise — and then lingering around the stall to spy on other men with the stolen mirror, as they used the facility’s restroom.

The loss-prevention officer had allegedly witnessed Posey attempting the same bizarre action a few days prior, but was unable to confirm any wrongdoing, added Holder.

Posey is currently being held in the Bell County Detention Center on a $1,000 cash bond.

Jorden Hurd, of the Middlesboro Police Department, was the arresting officer.

An arrest is an accusation only. Individuals arrested are considered to be innocent, unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Adam Young is a staff writer for the Middlesboro Daily News. He can be contacted by e-mail at ayoung@heartlandpublications.com.