On Saturday, December 6, a man reported finding a hidden camera inside a restroom at The Shoppes at Carlsbad, located in northern San Diego County.

According to the report, the man, identified as “AC,” was using the restroom when he noticed a suspicious device. Upon inspecting it, he recorded a video in which, according to his testimony, the camera appeared to be strategically placed and pointed directly at the toilet. The device was allegedly hidden beneath a baby-changing station dispenser inside a unisex restroom located on the mall’s second level.

AC said he was disturbed by the thought that other people had used the restroom before him. “I felt bad because a couple of women had gone in before me,” he stated.

While he acknowledged feeling uncomfortable about the possibility of having been recorded, AC explained that his main concern was the safety of women and minors who may have been affected. He also expressed fear that the footage could be shared online.

According to NBC 7, mall security personnel responded immediately after receiving the report and removed the camera from the restroom. AC later contacted the Carlsbad Police Department to formally file a report.

A police spokesperson confirmed to the network that the device was taken into evidence, a detective was assigned to the case, and authorities are conducting a thorough investigation.

The incident has raised alarm among mall visitors. Shopper Rosina Boykin expressed concern about the lack of privacy in public restrooms and called for increased security measures. The shopping center has not issued any comment regarding the incident.