Former Fire Rescue Lieutenant Charged with Video Voyeurism After Hiding Camera in Bathroom
A former Miami-Dade Fire Rescue lieutenant is now facing serious legal consequences after investigators discovered a hidden camera in a fire station bathroom. The device, which was disguised as a wall charger, was found to have recorded more than 600 video clips capturing employees in their most vulnerable moments. The discovery has led to the arrest of Manuel Fernandez, a 55-year-old former lieutenant, who is now charged with multiple counts of video voyeurism.
The hidden camera was reportedly placed in the men’s bathroom at a fire station located in Doral. Authorities believe that Fernandez installed the device by concealing it within an electrical outlet. The camera was only discovered in April 2023 when an employee stumbled upon the device, prompting a thorough investigation by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.
According to the arrest warrant obtained by NBC6, the recordings were made between February 11 and April 1, 2023. Investigators also found that the same device had been used in the women’s bathroom at another fire station in Homestead. This revelation raised significant concerns about the privacy and safety of the employees working at these locations.
Detectives conducted a detailed review of shift rosters and identified Fernandez as the only employee who was working at both stations during the time the camera was active. In one of the video clips, a man wearing a Miami-Dade Fire Rescue uniform could be seen adjusting the camera, further implicating Fernandez in the incident.
Following the discovery of the hidden camera, the fire department placed Fernandez on paid administrative duty, allowing him to work from home. A memo from the department indicated that police had identified him as their prime suspect. Eventually, Fernandez resigned from his position, according to reports.
Fernandez was taken into custody on Monday, July 7, and faced several charges related to video voyeurism. He managed to post a $27,500 bond shortly after his arrest. When reporters approached him outside the jail on Tuesday, they asked if he had placed the cameras in the bathrooms. His response was, “I have no idea.”
This case highlights the serious nature of privacy violations and the potential risks associated with unauthorized surveillance. It also underscores the importance of maintaining a secure and respectful workplace environment for all employees. As the legal proceedings continue, the community will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
