A West Virginia high school principal was suspended Wednesday after authorities reportedly found recording devices hidden in several locker room areas on campus, prompting an immediate response from school officials.
The criminal investigation centers on Eric James, 53, the principal of Brooke High School in Wellsburg.
Four devices were discovered in female physical education locker rooms, including a separate locker room and an additional dressing space used by the school’s dance team, WTOV 9 reported, citing officials.
“Yesterday, after students were released, Brooke County Schools was informed of a criminal investigation into allegations that a recording device was placed in a locker room at Brooke High School,” the school system said in a Thursday memo, according to Lede News.
Eric James, 53, was suspended from Brooke High School after recording devices were reportedly found in female locker rooms. (Google Maps)
Reports said the devices were taken off school property with assistance from school security officers, staff members and law enforcement personnel.
Authorities also reportedly seized additional devices from James’ home, officials said.
James is being held at the Northern Regional Jail in Marshall County, West Virginia, on a $100,000 bond, according to the state Magistrate Database and the West Virginia Regional Jail Authority.
FILE — Officials said the recording devices were removed from the West Virginia high school on Wednesday. (iStock)
He was charged Thursday with two felony counts, including one count of intentionally intercepting or attempting to intercept wire, oral or electronic communications and one count of breaking and entering a nonresidence.
The school system said it “will be meeting with students, parents, and staff to offer supportive measures while the investigations continue,” according to Lede News.
FILE — Officials said four devices were found across multiple locker rooms at the school. (Adobe Stock)
“The safety, security, and privacy of our students are fundamental responsibilities of our school system. Conduct that compromises those responsibilities will not be tolerated. The school system is cooperating fully with law enforcement and is also conducting its own investigations into the matter,” the school said.
