A California State Assemblywoman is urging Governor Jerry Brown to sign her bill that would double the penalties on Peeping Toms. The bill increases the fine to $2,000 and up to a year in jail for repeat offenders, or for the first crime where the victim is a minor.
Democratic Assemblywoman Norma Torres said local police departments came to her about several recent problems, including cameras discovered in clothing stores and in a university bathroom. Torres explained modern technology has made the crime even more invasive.
“They can download images, you know far away from where the camera has been installed," Torres said. "And not only are they viewing those images but they are uploading them to the internet where thousands, maybe millions of other people could be viewing this victim’s very, very private time.”
Torres hopes higher penalties would serve as a deterrent. The bill was approved with bi-partisan support. Governor Brown has until October ninth to sign or veto hundreds of measures on his desk.
