Authorities in Iowa have arrested a Des Moines man accused of secretly recording dozens of people, including minors, by placing hidden cameras inside porta-potties during community events.
Tyler Pavlick, 32, was taken into custody Wednesday and charged with multiple felonies, including seven counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and three counts of invasion of privacy, according to the Des Moines Police Department. Investigators say Pavlick installed cameras beneath toilet seats to capture footage of unsuspecting adults and children at two separate events.
One of the hidden cameras was first discovered on October 4 at the Harvest & Handmade Fair held in Water Works Park, Des Moines. Authorities say the device had been actively recording individuals as they used the portable restroom. “The camera captured both adults and children,” said Sgt. Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department.
A second investigation began in Marshall County after a similar camera was found on September 23 in a porta-potty at the Lincoln Valley Golf Course in State Center. At the time, the golf course was hosting a cross-country meet for several middle and high school teams organized by the West Marshall Community School District.
According to a criminal complaint, Pavlick allegedly placed the device shortly before the student races began, then left the area. The camera was later spotted and turned over to police.
“School officials were immediately notified,” the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Investigators conducted interviews, gathered witness statements, and reviewed surveillance footage that may have shown the suspect or suspects involved.”
Detectives later linked the two incidents after sharing information between departments. Digital evidence tied Pavlick to both locations, authorities said. He now faces a long list of additional charges, including 36 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of promoting the production of exploitative material, and 52 counts of invasion of privacy involving nudity.
Pavlick is currently being held at the Polk County Jail on a $100,000 cash bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday.