ACLU protests use of camera in restroom

STRONGSVILLE, Ohio (AP) — Cleveland Metroparks officials say a surveillance camera has been removed from a park restroom, but the ACLU says it never should have been placed there.

The button-size camera at the Royalview Picnic Area could not see into the toilet area and recorded only people in front of the sink and doorway, officials said. Park rangers used the surveillance system to arrest 27 men who were charged with indecent exposure.

The picnic area is a well-known spot for men looking for sex, Metroparks police Capt. Jack Hall said. Cameras are installed in specific areas only after rangers receive complaints, and only four rangers have access to the images, Hall said.

Rangers also use cameras to record thefts and vandalism in park areas.

The American Civil Liberties Union objected to the restroom surveillance, saying that people expect privacy when they enter a restroom.

“It’s a gross invasion of privacy,” said Carrie Davis, a staff attorney. “It is disturbing.”

If the restroom is a prime area for criminal acts and surveillance is in effect, officials should post signs informing the public, Davis said.