DECATUR, Ill. (WICS) — A 55-year-old Decatur man is facing serious charges after allegedly placing hidden cameras in the tanning area of a local Planet Fitness to record unsuspecting individuals — including a juvenile.
On March 18, Decatur Police were alerted after a customer at the Planet Fitness on 3194 N. Water Street discovered a hidden camera in the tanning bed area. The gym staff immediately contacted police, prompting a swift investigation by the Decatur Police Department’s Tech Unit.
Investigators identified individuals caught on camera and notified all known victims, which includes at least one juvenile.
Detectives soon identified James Barone as the primary suspect. The next day, March 19, Barone was arrested. A search warrant executed at his residence led to the seizure of multiple electronic devices, which are now being analyzed to identify any additional victims.
Barone was booked into the Macon County Jail on preliminary charges of:
Unauthorized Video Recording/Live Video Transmission
Production of Child Pornography
The investigation is still active, and police say additional charges may be filed as more evidence is reviewed.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Decatur Police Department.
