Vermont Voyeurism Laws
Vermont addresses voyeurism and hidden camera offenses through two primary statutes: 13 V.S.A. 2605 (voyeurism) and 13 V.S.A. 2606 (nonconsensual disclosure of intimate images). Vermont Supreme Court case law, particularly State v. Geraw (2002), provides additional protections against hidden recording in private homes.
This guide covers what conduct is prohibited, criminal penalties, the interaction with federal law, and remedies for victims.
Vermont Voyeurism Statute (13 V.S.A. 2605)
What the Law Prohibits
A person commits voyeurism by intentionally viewing, photographing, filming, or recording a person's intimate areas without their consent in circumstances where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. The law applies regardless of whether the person is in a public or private setting.
Criminal Penalties
| Offense | Maximum Prison | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| First offense | 2 years | $1,000 |
| Second or subsequent | 3 years | $5,000 |
| Involving minors (13 V.S.A. 2605(c)) | 5 years | $5,000 |
Nonconsensual Intimate Images (13 V.S.A. 2606)
Knowingly disclosing images of an identifiable person who is nude or engaged in sexual conduct, without consent, with intent to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce.
| Offense | Maximum Prison | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 years | $2,000 |
| For profit | 5 years | $10,000 |
Hidden Cameras and State v. Geraw
The Vermont Supreme Court ruled in State v. Geraw (2002) that placing hidden recording devices inside a private home without consent or a warrant violates Article 11 of the Vermont Constitution. This is the strongest privacy protection against hidden cameras in Vermont, applying to all recording in private residences.
Where Protections Apply
Strong privacy expectation: Private homes (Geraw), hotel rooms, bathrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, medical examination rooms.
No privacy expectation: Public parking lots (Brooks), hospital ERs (Rheaume), public streets, stores.
Federal Law Interaction
The Video Voyeurism Prevention Act (18 U.S.C. 1801) applies on federal property. Federal wiretap law (18 U.S.C. 2511) applies to audio captured by hidden cameras.
Reporting
Contact local law enforcement. Do not disturb hidden devices. Document details. Consult an attorney about civil claims including invasion of privacy and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
More Vermont Recording Laws
Audio Recording | Video Recording | Voyeurism & Hidden Cameras | Workplace Recording | Recording Police | Phone Call Recording | Security Cameras | Recording in Public | Landlord-Tenant | Dashcam Laws | Schools | Medical Recording
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