In a deeply disturbing turn of events, a Las Vegas man has been arrested for allegedly concealing a camera in a Starbucks restroom to capture private moments, police confirmed. The incident took place at a Starbucks located on Spring Mountain Road near Valley View Boulevard and has left the community shaken.
Metro police responded to the scene on Monday after employees reported suspicious activity. According to documents obtained by 8 News Now, staff noticed frequent restroom visits by customer Raymond Haywood, who reportedly entered the restroom more than nine times over three hours.
One employee, after noticing shoe prints on the toilet seat, investigated further and discovered a phone camera strategically placed inside an air vent. The device’s lens was pointed directly at the toilet, capable of recording individuals in compromising situations. Alarmed by the discovery, the employee immediately alerted authorities.
“It is important to note that the camera lenses were pointed directly down toward the toilet where it would be able to capture the private area of another person as they used the restroom,” police reported.
Haywood defended himself by claiming he takes medication that forces him to use the restroom frequently. However, investigators found his shoes matched the prints found on the toilet seat.
Haywood was arrested on charges of capturing, distributing, or displaying an image of a private area. He later posted a surety bond and is due in court next month.
In a statement, Starbucks emphasized its commitment to customer safety, saying, “This is a deeply disturbing incident, and we are grateful for the quick and thorough response from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. We will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement on this matter.”
This shocking incident highlights growing concerns about privacy in public spaces. Starbucks recently updated its open-door policy, requiring customers to make a purchase to stay, further reinforcing its commitment to safety.