RACINE, Wis. —  A suspected grocery thief still has a taste for finer cuisine, even in the struggling economy.

Police in Racine, Wis., say 43-year-old Brian A. Rubenstein tried to steal $625 in groceries. The total included $365 in lobster and $213 in ribeye and beef roasts.

Workers told police they saw Rubenstein fill his cart with lobster tails and beef cuts, as well as a smoked ham, apple pie and fruit platter. He was arrested Dec. 23.

Rubenstein was charged Friday with misdemeanor retail theft, which carries a maximum penalty of nine months in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Rubenstein didn't immediately return a message left Wednesday evening.

Police say he told investigators times are tough.