Video voyeurism involves the act of secretly recording or live-streaming someone without their consent in a private setting where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. This can occur in places such as homes, restrooms, changing rooms, and other locations where individuals expect privacy. The use of hidden cameras, smartphones, or other recording devices to capture intimate images or videos is not only a severe invasion of privacy but also a criminal offense.
The motivations behind video voyeurism can vary, including sexual gratification, harassment, or blackmail. Victims of video voyeurism often experience significant emotional distress, feeling violated and unsafe in their private spaces. The non-consensual distribution of these recordings can further amplify the damage, leading to long-term psychological trauma and reputational harm.
How Can EXCALIBUR Private Investigation Help Fight Against Video Voyeurism?
The professional private investigators (PIs) of EXCALIBUR have worked numerous cases involving video voyeurism and can play a crucial role in combating this crime if you suspect you're a victim. Here are several ways in which we can assist:
Detection and Investigation
- Hidden Camera Detection: Our team of professional private investigators are trained to locate hidden cameras and recording devices that may be disguised as everyday objects. Using advanced equipment, we sweep homes, offices, and other private spaces to ensure they are free of surveillance devices.
- Evidence Collection: If a hidden camera is found, we'll collect and preserve evidence in a manner that is admissible in court. We document the presence and placement of the device, and often work with law enforcement to ensure the evidence is handled correctly.
Legal Assistance
- Collaboration with Attorneys: The investigators of EXCALIBUR often work closely with legal professionals to build a strong case against the perpetrator. We gather evidence, take witness statements, and provide expert testimony in court if necessary.
- Identifying Perpetrators: Through thorough investigations, EXCALIBUR's investigators can help identify who placed the recording devices and gather information that can lead to their apprehension and prosecution.
Preventive Measures
- Security Consultations: Our professional private investigators often offer advice on enhancing security measures to prevent future incidents of video voyeurism. This might include installing more secure locks, using anti-spyware technologies, and educating individuals on how to detect and prevent unauthorized surveillance.
Laws Pertaining to Video Voyeurism in Colorado, New Mexico, and South Carolina
The laws regarding video voyeurism vary by state, but all have stringent penalties to deter this invasive crime. In the states where we have investigators the laws are as follows:
Colorado: In Colorado, video voyeurism is addressed under Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-7-801. It is unlawful to knowingly observe or record another person’s intimate parts without consent when they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. The offense is considered a class 1 misdemeanor, but it can be escalated to a class 6 felony if the victim is a minor or if the perpetrator has prior convictions for similar offenses.
New Mexico: New Mexico's law on video voyeurism is covered under N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-9-20. It is illegal to record or view another person’s intimate areas without their consent when they expect privacy. Violations are categorized as a misdemeanor, but repeat offenders or cases involving minors can lead to felony charges. Additionally, distributing such recordings without consent is a separate felony offense.
South Carolina: South Carolina addresses video voyeurism under S.C. Code Ann. § 16-17-470. The law makes it a crime to secretly record, photograph, or view someone in a private space without their consent. This includes bathrooms, dressing rooms, and other areas where individuals expect privacy. Offenses are treated as misdemeanors, but aggravated circumstances, such as repeat offenses or involvement of minors, can elevate the charges to a felony.
Conclusion
Video voyeurism is a serious crime that infringes upon the privacy and dignity of individuals. EXCALIBUR Private Investigation offers valuable services in detecting and preventing such offenses, collecting evidence, and assisting in legal proceedings. Understanding the specific laws in states like Colorado, New Mexico, and South Carolina is crucial for victims seeking justice and for those aiming to protect their privacy. By leveraging the expertise of our private investigators, over 30+ years of law enforcement experience, and the protections provided by state laws, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their personal spaces and hold perpetrators accountable.
Think you may be or have been a victim of video voyeurism? Contact our office at 719.208.4088, 505.208.6400 or 803.806.7800 and one of our professional private investigators will be in contact with you within the hour. All of our team has been trained in hidden camera/audio detection and know how to preserve evidence of this crime so that you can make the perpetrator pay for this heinous crime. We also have special software we use to locate unauthorized videos on the internet. Think a former spouse or partner may have shared intimate video/photos on the internet? Call us and we'll see what's out there.
Remember, there is no substitute for experience and we have more than most any private investigation firm in the country.