Judge rules each videotaping at West Virginia State Police Academy is separate offense

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WTRF) — Over 80 women are suing the West Virginia State Police after a hidden camera was found inside the locker room at the State Police Academy.

Judge Kenneth Ballard recently ruled that the videotaping of each individual is a separate offense for insurance policy purposes.  

“This is our state police surreptitiously filming women in the State Police Academy, where you have to go to become certified as a police officer. The chilling effect on women in law enforcement can’t be overstated.”
Theresa Toriseva – Attorney 

This decision means that the potential insurance payouts could be up to $1 million for each occurrence, and it also allows individual cases to move forward.  

“We’re very satisfied that these cases are moving forward. And while the litigation process is slow, our clients are pleased to see progress and accountability, and they’re in for the long haul, no matter how long it takes.”
Theresa Toriseva – Attorney

The ruling comes as the state argued the offenses should be grouped together as one, since they are related in nature, which would cap the total payout at $1 million for all plaintiffs combined.

The next step is to bring each case before a jury trial. 

“There’s also a class action lawsuit filed that will cover all types of women who didn’t file their cases individually.”
Theresa Toriseva – Attorney 

Among the alleged victims were long-time veterans of the West Virginia State Police and underage girls.