Troup (photo provided) |
PENN TWP. – A Penn High School custodian accused of planting a camera in a boys swim locker room and charged with three counts of voyeurism, each a Class D felony, was released from St. Joseph County jail around 4 p.m. Saturday on $1,000 cash bond. A Penn spokesperson says he will not be returning to work, as he has been placed on leave without pay.
Investigators are still sorting through a camera memory card, a computer, and other evidences taken from 53-year-old Robert Troup's home.
Principal Steve Hope said the school learned Wednesday that a camera was inside the boy's swimming locker room. Hope said students found the camera back in January. It wasn't brought to their attention until last week, according to court documents.
Court documents also say the camera was pointed toward the shower and contained about 20 recordings.
Read the charging and probable cause documents here.
"I have a little brother who is now in the 10th grade," said Zach Demeester, a Penn High School Senior. "He was in 9th grade when that was in there. There are other [students] somewhat concerned if they are videotaped."
Parents have concerning questions after Troup was arrested Thursday but a school spokeswoman said the district will not comment until next week.
"I can't believe that someone supposedly found it in January, and didn't report until last week," said Gayle Krasean, a Penn High School parent. "I don't understand that."
Principal Steve Hope issued a statement to the parents in the "Pennant" newsletter:
"We know there are many rumors and questions about the camera that was found in the boys swim locker room at Penn High School. It will take more time to gather all of the facts.
"The police took custody of the Secure Digital (SD) card from the camera which contains the electronic images. The electronic images on the SD card led to the arrest of a Penn High School custodian. Penn staff have searched all Penn High School locker rooms and restrooms and determined that no other cameras exist. We are not in possession of the SD card so we do not know what electronic images are on it. We are cooperating fully with the police in the investigation.
"Finally, we want the community to know that we are deeply saddened by this breach of trust by one of our staff members."
"It's always a concern," said Karl, a parent whose daughter attends Penn. "I have a lot of faith in the school and there's only so much they can do."
Hope told parents that if they have any questions or concerns to call the superintendent's office. Meanwhile, investigators are still sorting through reports and evidence.
