A West Virginia high school principal was placed on immediate suspension Wednesday after authorities reportedly uncovered recording devices inside several locker room areas on campus.
The case centers on Eric James, 53, the principal of Brooke High School in Wellsburg, who is now the subject of a criminal investigation.
Investigators said four devices were located in female physical education locker rooms, including a separate locker room space and a dressing area used by the school’s dance team, according to WTOV 9.
“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 district said in a Thursday memo, according to Lede News.
Eric James, 53, was suspended from Brooke High School following reports that recording devices were found in female locker room areas. (Google Maps)
The devices were removed from campus with the help of school security officers, staff and law enforcement, according to reports.
Additional devices were reportedly confiscated at James’ home, officials said.
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James is being held at the Northern Regional Jail in Marshall County, West Virginia, on $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.