Scottsdale detectives have found probable cause to file charges against Paradise Valley Town Councilman Paul Dembow for theft, according to police.

Dembow was allegedly caught on camera stealing a cross from a memorial made for a man killed after being struck by a car in 2015. 

The car was driven by then-Vice Mayor Dembow’s daughter, who was never charged with a crime because the act was ruled an accident.

The theft investigation was conducted by Scottsdale detectives to avoid conflict of interest.

If charged with theft, Dembow would face a Class 1 misdemeanor, which comes with a maximum penalty of six months in jail.

Dembow denies the allegations and has declined to comment on the investigation.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been modified for clarity.