High School Principal Arrested After Devices Found in Female Locker Rooms

A West Virginia high school principal has been suspended and arrested after investigators allegedly found recording devices hidden in areas where students changed clothes.

According to Fox News, Eric James, 53, who served as principal of Brooke High School in Wellsburg, is at the center of a criminal investigation that began after school officials were alerted Wednesday.

Authorities reportedly found four devices in female physical education locker rooms. Another dressing area used by the school’s dance team was also among the locations identified in reports.

The devices were removed from school property with assistance from school security personnel, school employees, and law enforcement, according to reports.

Investigators also reportedly searched James’ home and confiscated additional devices. The school system has not publicly provided details about what the devices allegedly recorded or how long they had been in place.

Brooke County Schools notified families and staff about the investigation in a memo issued Thursday.

“Yesterday, after students were released, Brooke County Schools was informed of a criminal investigation into allegations that a recording device was placed in a locker room at Brooke High School,” the district said, according to Lede News.

James was arrested Thursday and remains at the Northern Regional Jail in Marshall County. His bond was set at $100,000, according to the West Virginia Magistrate Database and the West Virginia Regional Jail Authority.

He faces two felony charges: one alleging that he intentionally intercepted or attempted to intercept wire, oral or electronic communications, and another alleging breaking and entering a nonresidence.

The allegations have prompted the school district to launch its own investigation alongside the criminal case. Officials said they are also arranging support for students, parents and employees as investigators continue their work.

“The safety, security, and privacy of our students are fundamental responsibilities of our school system,” school officials said. “Conduct that compromises those responsibilities will not be tolerated.”

The district said it is cooperating with law enforcement and will meet with members of the school community as the investigations proceed.

Authorities have not released James’ alleged motive or publicly detailed what investigators believe happened with the devices found at the school and his home.

For now, James remains in custody as the case moves through the court system, while Brooke County Schools works with law enforcement to determine the full scope of the allegations.

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