Video Voyeurism is the crime of setting up a video camera to capture people
dressing, undressing, or exposing their private parts without their knowledge
in a place where the victims would have reason to believe that they are
entitled to privacy. Apart from in the workplace, a person can be arrested
for committing voyeurism.
Depending on the circumstances, this crime can be charged as a misdemeanor
or a felony. One place where there is the potential for voyeurism is in
retail stores with dressing rooms. Florida law states that it is illegal
for merchants to view people using a dressing room, even if they intend
to do so for security purposes.
Merchants are not allowed to videotape, directly observe or spy on people
who are changing or are in restrooms. Merchants that violate this law
will be issued a first-degree misdemeanor. In the workplace, only eavesdropping
is illegal. As well, people cannot set up security cameras in private
areas like bathroom stalls or changing rooms at a workplace. They can,
however, set up surveillance in a building, parking lot, or another place
where there is no reasonable cause that a person would undress.
Setting up a video camera in a residence can also be deemed illegal. According
to Senate Bill No. 436, a person who is under 19-years-old and commits
voyeurism can be charged with a first degree misdemeanor. Those that are over 19
are instead charged with a third degree felony. Depending on the nature
of the crime, the consequences can be extreme.
For example, an adult who video-taped a minor for his or her own entertainment
will probably be charged with a sex crime and may become a registered
offender. If you have been charged with voyeurism, then talk to a criminal
defense attorney today. We understand that there may have been a host
of reasons that you acted the way that you did, and we want to support
you and fight for you in court. Talk to us today for more information
about how to battle your voyeurism charges!