Watch CBS News

Man, 43, Arrested For Taking Lewd Photos Of Women At 2 Glendale Malls

GLENDALE (CBSLA.com) — A 43-year-old man faces misdemeanor charges after allegedly taking inappropriate pictures of unsuspecting women at two shopping malls in Glendale.

Paul Martin Birkeland was taken into custody Monday evening after police said they spotted him using his cellphone to take photos and videos of women's private parts at the Glendale Galleria and the Americana at Brand.

Two of his five alleged victims were 15 years old.

Birkeland, who used to work at the Pacific Theatres at Americana, admitted to using the images for sexual gratification.

On Thursday night, authorities served a search warrant at Birkeland's home, where they took his computer to be analyzed.

Police said the suspect has been banned from setting foot in both malls.

In a statement, a spokesperson from Americana at Brand said, "The safety of our guests is our highest priority. We are grateful for the quick response by local law enforcement, and are pleased that Birkeland was apprehended for his actions."

Shoppers were disgusted when they were told of the situation by KCAL9's Kristine Lazar.

"It's just disgusting. It's just plain and simple disgusting. There are sick people out there," said Marine Sarkisyan.

"I think it's disturbing that you can't go to some place public and let your kids play and enjoy the environment without someone doing something as horrible as that," said Kim Trudell.

Lazar reported that Birkeland may have victimized more women.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.