Man Secretly Recorded People In Unisex Bathroom: Hillsborough Sheriff

RIVERVIEW, FL — A Riverview man faces charges for secretly recording people in a unisex restroom at a Verano Grow Facility, which cultivates marijuana for the dispensary MUV, in Hillsborough County, authorities said.

Deputies responded to the facility on June 30 after a victim found a cell phone hidden under the bathroom sink that was video recording in the direction of the toilet, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Investigators found explicit videos of 17 victims on the phone.

They identified the phone’s owner, 27-year-old Christopher Scipio, who tried to report his phone as stolen in an effort to erase its data after deputies seized it, the sheriff’s office said.

A warrant was issued for Scipio, who was taken into custody on Feb. 1.

He was charged with 31 counts of video voyeurism, tampering with physical evidence and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. More charges may be forthcoming.

“This man's actions are repulsive and disgraceful. We will not tolerate this invasion of privacy and exploitation in Hillsborough County," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "I want to commend the victim who came forward, as her actions likely prevented others from becoming victims."

Detectives believe there could be additional victims of Scipio. Anyone who has information is asked to call 813-247-8200.