Jacob Brown
A Long Island exterminator faces charges after allegedly attempting to record a 19-year-old woman as she changed during a house call in Hempstead.
The young woman had hired Joroba Pest Control to exterminate her apartment and was present when Walter Rivas, 45, arrived to complete the job. During the process, some chemicals sprayed by Rivas reportedly came into contact with the victim.
Allegations of Unlawful Surveillance:
According to police, Rivas encouraged the woman to change her clothes due to potential contamination. However, the woman discovered a phone recording her through a bucket placed on her bed while changing.
Upon making this disturbing discovery, the woman immediately contacted 911. Police swiftly conducted an investigation, leading to Rivas’s arrest on a charge of unlawful surveillance.
The victim expressed shock and concern, stating that he attempted to retrieve his phone when she confronted Rivas about the recording.
Legal Proceedings and Statements:
Rivas, who reportedly admitted to making a mistake, appeared in court for an arraignment following his arrest. He was ordered to stay away from the alleged victim.
Company’s Response and Termination:
Joroba Pest Control confirmed Rivas’s termination in response to the incident, emphasizing that his actions do not reflect the company’s values or standards.
Authorities urge other potential victims to come forward, encouraging them to contact the police or Crime Stoppers with relevant information.
