A temporary election worker in Maricopa County, Arizona, was arrested for allegedly stealing a security fob and keys from a ballot tabulation center.

Walter Ringfield, 27, was caught on security footage taking the items and placing them in his pocket. When confronted, he denied the theft but later suggested they might be in his car.

A search revealed a red lanyard and tag matching the stolen items, but the fob was still missing, Fox News has reported.

Ringfield admitted to taking the fob but claimed he returned it after 20 minutes, hoping to improve his chances of securing a permanent job.

He was arrested on suspicion of theft and criminal damage.

Written by B.C. Begley