Local

Man arrested after claiming to have COVID-19 during Facebook Live inside Albemarle Walmart

ALBERMARLE, N.C. — A video of a man claiming he had COVID-19 and touching things in a local store was circulating on Facebook. He is now facing charges.

[ Tracking Coronavirus ]

Albermarle police arrested Justin Rhodes Friday and he is facing charges for felony perpetrating a hoax in a public building and disorderly conduct.

Officers said Rhodes did a Facebook Live video from inside the Albermarle Walmart two days ago, saying he had the virus.

Police said he didn’t have the coronavirus and it was all a hoax.

Rhodes received a bail set at $10,000. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 30.