Chattanooga, September 10, 2025
News Summary
A man in Chattanooga has been arrested after a hidden camera was discovered in the unisex restroom of a local company. Eric Palilonis faces multiple charges for secretly recording employees and others using the restroom. The device was found by an employee and contained footage showing invasive surveillance on multiple occasions. This incident raises serious concerns about privacy and consent in the workplace, as investigations continue regarding the implications for employee rights.
Chattanooga Man Arrested for Installing Hidden Camera in Workplace Restroom
A Chattanooga man has been arrested and faces multiple charges after authorities discovered he installed a hidden camera in the unisex restroom of Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company. Eric Palilonis, identified as the suspect, allegedly placed the camera on the restroom floor, which was angled towards the toilet. This restroom is utilized by all employees, and at times, their children as well.
The alarming discovery took place on July 31st when a female employee found the hidden camera during her visit to the restroom and promptly reported it to the management of the company. Following the report, police were called in to address the issue and investigate further.
Upon receiving the complaint about the hidden camera, law enforcement officials seized the device’s SD card, which contained crucial evidence. The SD card revealed video footage of Palilonis secretly placing the camera on at least 12 different occasions. Disturbingly, the recordings showed multiple individuals, including employees, utilizing the restroom and standing in the stall in various states of undress.
As a result of this investigation, Eric Palilonis has been charged with eight counts of photographing without consent. Authorities continue to gather details and conduct inquiries surrounding this distressing incident. Meanwhile, as of now, there has been no comment from Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company concerning the shocking events that have unfolded at their facility.
Investigation and Evidence
The investigation commenced immediately after the camera was discovered. Police worked efficiently to analyze the footage on the SD card. Evidence from the recordings confirmed repeated and invasive surveillance, raising serious concerns over privacy and consent in the workplace.
Legal Consequences
Charges against Palilonis carry significant weight, as photographing individuals without their consent can lead to severe legal repercussions. The nature of the allegations, compounded with the number of incidents documented, may result in further legal action and scrutiny over workplace safety and employee rights.
Context and Reactions
This incident reflects broader concerns about privacy and consent in workplaces across the country. The use of hidden cameras is illegal in many contexts, especially when it comes to sensitive areas such as restrooms. Employers are advised to uphold strict privacy policies and ensure safe work environments for their employees. As investigations continue, this case may raise questions regarding security practices and employee wellbeing in the workplace, highlighting the need for vigilance against such intrusive actions.
FAQs
What happened in the Chattanooga incident?
Eric Palilonis was arrested for installing a hidden camera in a unisex restroom at Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company. The camera was discovered by a female employee on July 31st.
What were the charges against Eric Palilonis?
Palilonis faces eight counts of photographing without consent related to the hidden camera incident.
Who discovered the camera and when?
A female employee discovered the hidden camera on the floor of the restroom on July 31st and reported it to management.
What did the investigation reveal?
The investigation revealed footage of Palilonis placing the camera in the restroom multiple times, capturing footage of employees using the facilities.
What actions did the police take?
Police seized the hidden camera and the SD card it was connected to, which contained incriminating evidence against Palilonis.
Has Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company commented on the incident?
No, there has been no comment from Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company regarding the situation as of yet.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Eric Palilonis |
| Location | Pye Barker Fire & Safety Company, Chattanooga |
| Incident Date | July 31st |
| Charges | 8 counts of photographing without consent |
| Camera Discovery | Found on restroom floor |
| SD Card Evidence | Footage of camera placements and individuals using restroom |
| Response from Company | No public comment made yet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Fifth Inmate of Orleans Parish Jail Captured After Escape
Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Wikipedia: Privacy Law
- Local 3 News
- Google Search: Privacy in the Workplace
- Turn to 10
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surveillance
- WDEF News
- Google News: Chattanooga Hidden Camera Incident
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
