A Colorado man accused of trying to videotape customers in the bathroom of a Starbucks near San Diego State University pleaded not guilty this week to trying to use a hidden camera, it was learned today.
An attorney for James Burkhart, 25, entered a plea on his behalf on Tuesday, said Gina Coburn of the City Attorney's Office, which handles misdemeanor cases.
Burkhart's arraignment had been scheduled for Nov. 9, but since defendants are not required to appear for misdemeanor hearings, such proceedings are often handled ahead of time.
SDSU spokesman Greg Block said the camera was found near a trash can in the restroom at the College Avenue Starbucks shop on July 17. It was unclear how long it had been there and if it had recorded footage of any unsuspecting victims, Block said.
The spokesman said it was unclear why Burkhart was in San Diego. He said the defendant has no ties to the university and was not employed by the coffee shop.
Burkhart was allowed to remain free on his own recognizance, Coburn said. She said a readiness conference was scheduled for Dec. 15.
