West Midlands Police have launched an investigation into voyeurism after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly filmed while undressing in the changing rooms at Crystal Leisure Centre, Stourbridge.
Incident Details
- The incident took place at around midday on Monday, 6 January.
- The teenager noticed a phone being held under her cubicle, reportedly by a “white, oldish male hand.”
- She kicked at the phone and pulled up her swimming costume, but by the time she looked under the cubicle, the suspect had already fled.
Mother’s Warning to Parents
The girl’s distraught mother posted about the incident on Facebook, warning other parents to be extra cautious.
“My girl is so, so distressed by this. She feels violated and has non-stop cried, worried that indecent images of her are now on some random man’s phone.”
She urged parents to warn their children to:
- Stay vigilant in changing rooms
- Check the bottoms and sides of cubicle doors before undressing
- Report any suspicious behaviour immediately
Leisure Centre and Council Response
The Crystal Leisure Centre staff have been praised for their swift response to the incident.
Councillor Phil Atkins, cabinet member for leisure centres at Dudley Council, stated:
“We are aware of the incident, and the matter has been reported to the police.
“Although incidents of this nature are extremely rare, our staff have been asked to be extra vigilant.”
Police Investigation and Appeal for Information
West Midlands Police confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, and they are working closely with the family and the leisure centre.
A spokesperson for the force said:
“We are investigating a report of voyeurism at around 12pm on Monday, 6 January.
“As part of our ongoing investigation, we are supporting the family and liaising with the leisure centre to assist with enquiries.”
How to Help the Investigation
Anyone with information is urged to come forward.
- Call 101, quoting incident number 20/106349/25
- Use Live Chat on the West Midlands Police website
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111