CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - Privacy laws explained after hidden camera case in Tyler

Privacy laws explained after hidden camera case in Tyler

by Hayley Wielgus

TYLER (KYTX) - A Tyler woman says she was being taped on hidden camera inside her bedroom by her landlord. Police searched where the woman lived last week and found video camera equipment and other electronic devices inside the home at 1319 East Idel.

CBS 19 has confirmed that Lance Phillips, son of Smith County commissioner Terry Phillips is a resident of the home. Commissioner Phillips and his wife released a statement that reads in part:

"We love our son and always will.

He has been accused of breaking the law.

We are not attempting to make any excuses for him. He will have to go through the justice process. If our son is guilty, he will face the consequences for his actions."

In many cases, there are laws to protect you against the use of hidden cameras. CBS 19's Hayley Wielgus explains where and when the law applies.

Most people expect a level of privacy inside their home and even some public places.

Tyler police officer Don Martin says the Texas Penal Code protects you from certain hidden cameras.

It's illegal to photograph or video tape someone if two conditions are met: "For the purpose of sexual gratification and without the person's consent."

Martin says it's legal to have surveillance cameras inside your home, as long as they're for the sole purpose of security.

"If I had cameras placed throughout my house for security reasons and you broke into my home and you were videotaped in my room stealing things, the law would not apply."

Many retail outlets have surveillance systems, but there are two areas where Martin says cameras are always prohibited.

"When you're going into a dressing room or bathroom, you're protected, meaning you should not be filmed while you're in those two types of areas, because it's a privacy area," said Martin.