A deeply unsettling breach of privacy has emerged from a Melbourne hospital, where a man allegedly planted a hidden camera inside a women's toilet. Ryan Cho, 27, faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Monday after being charged with multiple offences.
The discovery was made by an alert staff member at the Northern Hospital in Epping, who noticed the suspicious device discreetly positioned within the bathroom. Police prosecutors stated the camera was "capable of recording visual data" and was found concealed in the toilet area.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Mr. Cho faces serious charges, including attempting to commit an indecent act and the use of a device to observe another person's privacy. The court heard that the device was seized and will undergo a full forensic examination by cybercrime detectives to determine the full extent of the recorded material.
Despite the severity of the allegations, Magistrate Andrew McKenna granted Mr. Cho bail under strict conditions. He is required to reside at his parents' home, surrender his passport, and is prohibited from going within 200 metres of any hospital, except in a genuine medical emergency.
Hospital's Response and Community Alarm
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised serious questions about security within medical facilities. A spokesperson for the Northern Health network, which operates the hospital, confirmed they are "providing support to our staff" and are fully cooperating with the ongoing police investigation.
This case highlights a growing concern over the use of covert recording technology and the vulnerability of private spaces. The court will await the results of the forensic analysis as the investigation continues. Mr. Cho is scheduled to return to court at a later date.
