MAN HID CAMERAS IN EX GIRLFRIEND’S BEDROOM
A man was accused of installing two hidden cameras in his girlfriend’s bedroom due to suspicions of infidelity, a court was informed.Thomas Tuff was apprehended after the victim contacted authorities on May 11 of the previous year.
A prosecutor explained to Coleraine Magistrates’ Court that Tuff, aged 37, had accused his girlfriend of cheating during a phone call.
When she turned off her bedroom light, Tuff commented on it, and when questioned how he knew about her actions, he revealed he had concealed a camera inside the room.
The woman later discovered two devices, with only one functioning, behind her wardrobe.
Following his arrest at his residence on Kintullagh Park in Ballymena, Tuff confessed to police that he had installed the cameras with the intent of catching her unfaithful.
He also admitted to charges of stalking, resisting arrest, and damaging a police vehicle.
These offences occurred between May 4 and 12 of the previous year.
Defence lawyer Alan Stewart explained that Tuff did not place the cameras for sexual gratification or perverted reasons but described the act as a 'reckless, misguided attempt' to catch his partner in infidelity.
He added that the victim has now entered a new relationship with someone Tuff suspected her of cheating with.
While not excusing the behaviour, he suggested it provided context.
District Judge Peter King characterised the actions as coercive and controlling, awarding an 18-month probation order combined with 80 hours of community service.
Tuff was also issued a seven-year restraining order against the victim.
