The dean of research at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers University, 51-year-old Joshua Kohut, was arrested in New Jersey because of videos found on his devices with so-called upskirting – secretly filming under a woman's skirt or dress.
It is not specified who exactly became the professor’s victim, but the prosecutor’s office reported that the filming was carried out by Kohut during working hours. The video, which was found on his smartphone during the search, showed “the intimate area of another person in underwear.”
The man was charged with fourth-degree invasion of privacy. It carries a penalty of up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
“It is alleged that the accused used his mobile phone to record the upskirt video without the knowledge of his victim. This invasion of privacy is not only outrageous, it is a criminal offense,” said New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport.
Upskirting is a crime in many states, and a conviction typically requires proof that the defendant intentionally and secretly took the images for sexual gratification. The injured party also has the opportunity to file a civil lawsuit in connection with the situation.
According to a certificate on the university website, Kohut worked at the institution for almost 30 years, initially coming there as a graduate student. He is currently suspended, university spokeswoman Dori Devlin told WHYY. She called the allegations against the scientist “extremely chilling” and noted that he is also now banned from campus until the trial is completed.
A Rutgers University research dean faces criminal charges after investigators say they found secretly recorded 'upskirt' videos on his seized electronic device.
Joshua Kohut, 51, a Dean of Research for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, was charged with… pic.twitter.com/3jNyG84asQ
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