Club employee arrested after investigators say device was positioned to record unsuspecting people using a toilet
NEW ROCHELLE, NY – The discovery of a recording device concealed inside a bathroom at the New York Athletic Club has led to the arrest of a club employee, with New Rochelle Police saying several alleged victims — including children — have been identified while detectives search for others who may have been recorded.
Ryan Mack, 33, of West Nyack, was charged Thursday with second-degree unlawful surveillance, a Class E felony.
The investigation began July 5 when the New York Athletic Club contacted police after discovering a concealed recording device inside a club bathroom.
New Rochelle detectives, working with the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office High Tech Unit, determined that Mack allegedly hid the device inside the Tennis Hut West Restroom.
Police said the camera was positioned to capture unsuspecting people while they were using the toilet.
Mack was an employee of the New York Athletic Club, according to investigators.
Police said detectives have since identified several alleged victims, including children. Authorities did not disclose the number or ages of those identified.
Investigators are now attempting to determine whether additional people were recorded.
Police are specifically seeking people who used the Platform Tennis Hut West Restroom or Men’s Tennis Locker Room during designated dates in June and July.
The dates for the Platform Tennis Hut West Restroom are June 19, July 4 and July 5. The dates involving the Men’s Tennis Locker Room are June 21, July 2 and July 3.
Investigators are asking anyone who used those locations between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the listed dates to contact police.
After the recording device was discovered, Mack traveled to Kansas, according to police.
In mid-July, Kansas Highway Patrol officers stopped and arrested him outside Topeka.
Members of the Westchester County Police Department Warrant Squad transported Mack back to Westchester County on Wednesday.
He was formally charged and arraigned Thursday in New Rochelle City Court.
Police said the investigation remains active and additional charges are possible.
Anyone who believes they may have been recorded or has information relevant to the investigation can contact Detective Marisa Bird at 914-654-2367.
The charge against Mack is an accusation, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Key Points
- New Rochelle Police say a concealed recording device was discovered inside a bathroom at the New York Athletic Club, positioned to capture people using the toilet.
- Investigators have identified several alleged victims, including children, and are searching for additional potential victims.
- Ryan Mack, 33, an NYAC employee, was arrested and charged with second-degree unlawful surveillance, while police say additional charges are possible.
