The Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will implement enforcement in Suffolk County of a ban on video voyeurism in public fitting rooms, bathrooms and dressing rooms.
While Suffolk County does not have the jurisdiction to stop someone from secretly spying on or videotaping a person in a private home, Cooper's bill will enforce a prohibition on the use of video cameras, two-way mirrors or other viewing devices that could be utilized to surreptitiously observe a person in areas frequented by the public where one would reasonably expect to have privacy.
"This legislation is an important step forward in protecting the privacy rights of Suffolk County residents when using public facilities," Cooper said.
The criminal penalties for violating this law could include 15 days imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $300. Civil penalties could include fines of up to $300.
