A hidden camera was found in a public restroom at The Shoppes at Carlsbad, a large shopping center in North County San Diego, on December 6, 2025. A visitor discovered the device in a unisex bathroom on the mall’s second floor, near Spencer’s and Journeys. The camera was hidden under a dispenser and connected to a portable power bank. The visitor reported the device to mall security at about 4:29 pm. Security staff secured the camera until police arrived and collected it as evidence.
Police have started an investigation. The incident has led to concerns about privacy and safety at the shopping center, which has over 120 tenants. The person who found the camera posted a public warning, asking shoppers to be alert and to report anything unusual in restrooms. The Shoppes at Carlsbad management has not released a statement or responded to media questions about the incident or possible new safety measures.
The discovery happened soon after the mall was sold to Steerpoint Capital and SteelWave, who have announced plans to upgrade the property, including restrooms. The mall is currently undergoing renovations and has an occupancy rate of about 74 percent. It is not clear if the new ownership has changed security procedures…