The long arm of the law don’t hesitate for no man – even a former Alabama State law maker. Is this true even if you really have to use the potty?

Dale Peterson, a former Republican candidate for Alabama agriculture commissioner known for an ad hitting "thugs and criminals" that "don't give a rip," says he will attempt to get a shoplifting charge dismissed. As reported in www.huffingtonpost.com.

Beer and Paper Towels

Where was he targeted for stealing? Peterson was stopped by employees at a Wal-Mart after taking a shopping cart of beer and paper towels past the store's cash registers without paying. He claims he was rushing to the bathroom, not trying to steal beer.

The 67-year-old Peterson said he and his wife, Kathy, had friends coming over to watch a football game, and he went to pick up supplies. He said he got ready to check out with less than $40 worth of merchandise, but he had to go to the restroom badly.

Peterson said he rolled his shopping cart past the cash registers, parked it outside the restroom, and got stopped by store security when he emerged from the restroom. He said he never left the store, and he didn’t know it was considered shoplifting once you pass the cash registers.

Peterson lost the 2010 primary election for Alabama agriculture commissioner but stayed involved with politics thanks to the popularity of his campaign ads.

What do y’all think? Was he stealing or did he just have to take a leak? Would an Alabama shoplifting class be necessary for him?