From CNN.com:

WASHINGTON (CNN) — A former adviser to President Bush was arrested this week in Maryland and charged with swindling two department stores out of more than $5,000 in a refund scam.

Montgomery County police said Claude Allen, 45, was arrested Thursday and charged with carrying out a felony theft scheme at Target and Hecht’s stores. He was released on his own recognizance.

Conviction on the charges can result in a 15-year prison sentence.

Authorities accuse Allen of going to stores on more than 25 occasions and buying items, taking them to his car and then returning to the store with his receipt where he would carry out the alleged scam.

"He would select the same items he had just purchased, and then return them for a refund. Allen is known to have conducted approximately 25 of these types of refunds, having the money credited to his credit cards," a statement from Montgomery County police said.

He was President Bush’s top domestic policy advisor, earning $161,000 a year. I know how money doesn’t go far in DC, but still!! This is what has been advising our administration on domestic policy?!? He was observed doing it once and then they found he did it 25 times. Bush says “…if the allegations are true,” he’s deeply disappointed and sad. “Something must have been going on in Claude Allen’s life.” Ya think?!? I hope it was worth it for “items ranging from a Bose theater system to a photo printer to clothing to small items valued at $2.50…”