Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) -- A New Mexico inmate on his way out of jail was quickly thrown back in after authorities say he stole another inmate's cash then treated himself to a hearty lunch.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office told KOAT-TV that 20-year-old Frank Rodriguez-Tapia swiped $80 in cash while a guard's back was turned as Rodriguez-Tapia was walking out of jail. The money belonged to another inmate who was just coming into the Santa Fe jail and going through booking.

Police say Rodriguez-Tapia was supposed to report immediately to the electronic monitoring office, but bought lunch at Blake's Lotaburger. He later admitted to the theft, turned over the remaining $67 and was sent back to jail.

Rodriguez-Tapia is now facing new larceny charges.

It was unclear if he had an attorney.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)