‘Butt-Sniffing Bandit’ Arrested After Being Caught on Camera at Burbank Mall
BURBANK, CA — July 30, 2025 – A California man dubbed the “Butt-Sniffing Bandit” is back in police custody after being caught on surveillance footage engaging in lewd behavior at a popular department store in Burbank, authorities said.
According to a press release issued by the Burbank Police Department, Calese Carron Crowder, 38, was arrested on Tuesday, July 22, after allegedly crouching behind a female shopper and inappropriately sniffing her buttocks at Nordstrom Rack in the Empire Center shopping complex.
Store security notified police about a “suspicious individual loitering in the women’s department.” By the time officers arrived, the suspect had exited the store.
Crowder was later located at a nearby Walmart, also in the Empire Center on Victory Place. Officers used the store’s surveillance system to monitor his behavior in real time as he moved through various departments.
“While in the women’s section, the suspect was observed following a female customer, crouching near her, and engaging in lewd behavior by inappropriately sniffing her buttocks,” the press release stated.
Police detained Crowder without incident. He was charged with one count of loitering with intent to commit a crime, a misdemeanor offense in California.
His bail has been set at $100,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court on August 1.
The case has gained attention due to Crowder’s prior criminal history. Authorities confirmed that he is a registered sex offender with a documented history of similar behavior in Burbank and Glendale, dating back to 2021.
Public records show Crowder has been arrested multiple times in the past four years for incidents involving lewd conduct in public spaces, including shopping malls and department stores.
Police did not release the name of the victim in the most recent incident and confirmed that she was not physically harmed, though shaken by the encounter.
The disturbing behavior has raised serious concerns about public safety, particularly in family-oriented shopping centers.
“We take these incidents very seriously,” said a spokesperson for the Burbank Police Department. “This type of conduct is unacceptable, disturbing, and criminal. We’re committed to keeping our shopping centers safe for everyone.”
Nordstrom Rack has not issued a public statement but is reportedly cooperating with law enforcement and reviewing its in-store security protocols.
Social media users reacted with outrage and disbelief to news of Crowder’s arrest, with many calling for stricter monitoring of repeat offenders and stronger legal consequences for lewd conduct.
While loitering with intent to commit a crime is often classified as a misdemeanor, prosecutors may consider enhancing charges due to Crowder’s repeat-offender status and registered sex offender designation.
Legal experts note that Crowder’s behavior could potentially lead to more serious charges depending on future findings and the DA’s discretion.
Meanwhile, police are encouraging anyone who may have encountered Crowder or witnessed similar behavior at local businesses to come forward with information.
“We believe there may be additional victims who have not reported what they experienced,” said a BPD officer familiar with the case.
Crowder remains in custody as of Wednesday evening, and the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities remind the public to report suspicious activity immediately and not to confront individuals directly.
