Fruitland Park, Florida — A church worker in Central Florida has been arrested after investigators alleged that hidden cameras were used to secretly record girls and women inside a church bathroom and changing area.
The case began when a local company’s IT department discovered disturbing content during a routine review process, ultimately leading law enforcement to launch an investigation that resulted in the arrest of a longtime church member.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue reviewing evidence and identifying potential victims.
Discovery on Work Laptop Sparks Investigation
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after the IT director at a building supply company contacted police regarding suspicious files found on a company-issued laptop.
Investigators said a Google Drive folder allegedly contained inappropriate images involving adolescent girls and adult women.
The discovery was immediately reported to authorities.
In a statement, the company said it acted as soon as the material was found and has continued cooperating with investigators.
“The material was discovered by our team during a routine company process and was immediately reported to law enforcement. We have cooperated fully with the authorities from the outset and will continue to do so.”
The company also confirmed that the employee involved is no longer employed there.
Detectives Trace Videos to Church Facilities
As investigators examined the files, they reportedly discovered additional videos that appeared to show adolescent girls changing clothes inside a church facility.
According to the sheriff’s office, further investigation led detectives to conclude that the footage originated from hidden cameras allegedly installed inside a church bathroom and changing room.
Authorities later returned to inspect the areas where the recordings were believed to have occurred. However, officials said the cameras were no longer present by the time investigators conducted their search.
The discovery raised concerns among church members and families as detectives worked to determine how long the alleged recordings may have been taking place.
Church Overseer Arrested and Released on Bond
Authorities identified the suspect as Charles Barton Lucas, 59, who was listed as an overseer at Heritage Community Church in Fruitland Park.
Lucas was arrested Friday evening on video voyeurism-related charges and booked into the Lake County Jail. According to officials, he was later released Saturday after posting a $25,000 bond.
Investigators have not publicly disclosed how many videos were recovered or how many potential victims may have been affected.
The criminal case remains active as detectives continue gathering evidence.
Church Responds to Allegations
Following the arrest, Heritage Community Church released statements addressing the situation.
Initially, church leaders stated that they were praying for Lucas and his family. However, a later statement focused on the individuals who may have been impacted by the allegations.
“Our primary concern is for any individuals or families who may have been impacted by these allegations. We recognize the seriousness of situations like this and the deep hurt, confusion, and pain they can cause.”
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Church officials also emphasized that the organization does not support behavior that harms others and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.
“Heritage Community Church does not condone conduct that harms others or is inconsistent with our biblical values.”
The church said it intends to remain transparent with members as more information becomes available.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not released additional details regarding possible victims or whether additional charges could be filed.
Investigators continue reviewing evidence recovered during the case and are encouraging anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact law enforcement.
As the case moves through the legal system, both church leaders and investigators say their focus remains on supporting those potentially affected while ensuring a thorough review of the allegations.
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