Arthur Nathaniel Booth, the man who captured national attention in 2015 after a video showed him breaking down in tears when a Miami-Dade judge recognized him as a former middle school classmate, is back behind bars. Booth, now 58, was arrested on Wednesday for his alleged involvement in a series of crimes that have shaken the Miami community in recent weeks.

According to the Miami Police Department, Booth is accused of perpetrating a string of home invasion crimes throughout August. In each instance, Booth allegedly gained entry into the homes of his victims by posing as a utility worker or tradesman.

In one case, Booth reportedly posed as a water inspector and knocked on a victim’s door. Once inside, he allegedly searched the house, found a jewelry box, stole its contents, and fled. Miami Police spokesman Freddie Cruz explained that Booth’s method of operation involved gaining the trust of his victims by adopting different personas.

“He pretended to be someone there to help, but in reality, he was there to steal. An individual like this needs to be behind bars,” Cruz stated during a press briefing.

Another victim, an 85-year-old man, recounted his harrowing experience to NBC South Florida. Booth allegedly posed as a plumber and asked the elderly man to turn on the faucet in his bathtub. As the victim bent down to comply, Booth reportedly snatched a gold chain from his neck and fled the scene. The stolen chain held deep sentimental value, as it was a cherished possession the victim had brought from Cuba.

In a third incident, Booth allegedly asked a woman for directions before grabbing her necklace and escaping. Police believe Booth may be connected to other similar crimes and are continuing their investigation.

Booth first gained widespread attention nearly a decade ago when he was arrested following a burglary and police pursuit. During his initial court appearance, Miami-Dade Judge Mindy Glazer recognized Booth as a former classmate from Nautilus Middle School. The emotional moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, with millions of viewers witnessing Booth break down in tears as Judge Glazer expressed her sadness over seeing him in such circumstances.

“I’m sorry to see you there. I always wondered what happened to you, sir,” Glazer said at the time. “This was the nicest kid in middle school. He was the best kid in middle school… I hope you are able to change your ways.”

Despite the judge’s heartfelt words, Booth now faces multiple charges, including robbery, burglary, home invasion, and robbery without a firearm or weapon, according to jail records. No information was available regarding legal representation for Booth.

Credit: NBC News