UPDATED: DSP Make Arrest for Inappropriate Photography at Sussex Tech Homecoming Dance

Image courtesy DSP

UPDATED – 1/30/19 – A Dover man has been arrested on multiple counts of violation of privacy. Delaware State Police have charged 34 year old Elias Stephens after he intentionally secretly videotaped, photographed or filmed under females’ clothing while he was working for an entertainment company and operating a photo booth. The incident occurred at the Sussex Tech High School Homecoming Dance last September. Police were able to identify multiple victims throughout the state and on January 15th Stephens was indicted on 80 counts of violation of privacy, which is a felony. Stephens was living in Mississippi and was arrested on January 17th. He was extradicted back to Delaware yesterday and is being held at SCI in default of $160,000 secured bond. He has also been ordered to have no contact with any of the victims and if he posts bond – GPS monitoring is required and pre-trial supervision. He also may not possess any device capable of taking pictures or videos.

Sussex Tech School District released the following statement on the arrest of Elias Stephens:

The District is pleased to have assisted and cooperated with the Delaware State Police during the thorough and diligent investigation. The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority, and our school safety officers are present at all school functions for the protection of students and staff. When concerns were brought to the attention of administrators, we acted immediately and informed law enforcement authorities on hand. Counseling services are and have been available to any member of the Sussex Tech community.

=============================================

Original story – 10/1/18 – Delaware State Police are investigating an incident that occurred during Sussex Tech’s Homecoming Dance last weekend. Police tell WGMD they have received a report of inappropriate photography by an adult photographer. The investigation is continuing – no arrests have been made at this time.

On Sussex Tech’s Facebook page, officials say “The safety and well-being of students is our top priority and immediate action was taken. Our school safety officers are present at all school functions for the protection of students and staff.”