(KYTX) - A well-known TJC professor steps down after being arrested for theft and fraud.
We spoke with Manouchehr Khosrowshahi -- at his home -- but he did not want to go on camera.
Police arrested the professor at the Troup Highway Walmart for theft last week.
Police say he put barcodes he brought to the store on four items -- a box of rice, olive oil, boxer shorts and l-e-d light bulbs .
Security guards say when they approached him -- he tried to eat the remaining bar codes.
A shocked former student said the man she knew as Dr. K -- had a huge heart for students.
"I never pictured him doing something like that. He seemed like such an honest guy. ... really surprised me, really weird. Totally out of character for him, I thought."
In 2008 Dr. "K", was honored as "Texas Professor of the Year." He now faces a state-jail felony.
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Khosrowshahi, 59, was charged with theft of property of less than $1,500 2/more previous convictions, fraud and tampering/fabrication of physical evidence with the intent to impair.
The theft charge was upgraded to a state-jail felony because of two previous theft convictions; fraud is a Class C misdemeanor; and tampering with evidence is a third-degree felony, according to Martin.
Bond was set at $5,000 for theft charge; $2,500 for fraud charge; and $7,500 for tampering charge.
Dr. Khosrowshahi announced his retirement to TJC administrators via letter citing physical and mental health issues.
He further states it was a great pleasure to work at TJC since 1987.
Manouchehr Khosrowshahi
