Lawsuit Filed Against Del Valle ISD and Custodian Over Hidden Camera Footage
TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) – A lawsuit has been filed against Del Valle ISD by 35 current and former employees who allege the district failed to protect them from a former employee who installed a hidden camera in a restroom.
The Shocking Discovery
The case began on December 7, 2022, when a contractor installing “vape detectors” in restrooms stumbled upon a pouch containing USB drives and micro SD cards. These storage devices were found to contain nearly three years of invasive recordings showing “sensitive images and/or video footage of several District employees…observed using the restroom, with private areas discernible,” as per the lawsuit.
Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the recording device also captured images and video footage of other District employees and visitors, including minors, changing in the restroom with their private areas visible. The gravity of the situation prompted DVISD Police to take action immediately.
A Pattern of Negligence
According to the plaintiffs, Del Valle ISD failed to safeguard them from the former employee, who had a history of multiple sexual harassment and assault claims. The lawsuit alleges that despite being aware of the custodian’s inappropriate behavior as early as 2018, the district opted to transfer him to different locations instead of taking decisive action.
The former employee was repeatedly moved to various district sites when issues arose, creating a concerning pattern of transferring him rather than addressing the root problem. This enabled his disturbing behavior to persist unchecked, leading to the current legal action seeking damages in excess of $1 million for invasion of privacy, labor rights violations, and negligence.
Seeking Justice
Plaintiffs are demanding a jury trial to hold Del Valle ISD and the former custodian accountable for the trauma inflicted upon them. The lawsuit underscores the importance of maintaining safe and respectful work environments, urging educational institutions to prioritize employee well-being and promptly address misconduct allegations before they escalate.
As we navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics, it is crucial to uphold ethical standards and ensure that individuals feel secure in their professional settings. The courage of these employees in speaking out against injustice serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to advocate for fairness and accountability in all spheres of life. Let us stand in solidarity with those who bravely confront adversity, championing a culture of transparency and integrity for a brighter, more equitable future.