Long Island gym teacher accused of spying on girls

WESTHAMPTON BEACH (WABC) -- A Long Island middle school gym teacher is under arrest Wednesday, accused of setting up a video recording device in the girls' locker room.

Police say 27-year-old Thomas Sheppard was still in his gym outfit as he walked out of the state police barracks today. Police say Sheppard placed a cell phone in the girls locker room at Westhampton Beach Middle School to record them. "These charges are based upon one incident we're aware of. There may be more charges forthcoming as the investigation continues," said Major Patrick Regan with State Police. Sheppard's fiance as well as his parents were in court today for his appearance before a judge. His lawyer had nothing to say afterwards Police say last month a member of the school personnel found the cell phone and called police. Investigators wouldn't say where the phone allegedly was in the locker room, how long they think it had been there or if they've determined if Sheppard recorded anything. Earlier this afternoon Sheppard was released on $25,000 cash bail. But he will not be returning to the school. After four years there he's now been suspended. The superintendent of the Westhampton Beach school district wouldn't discuss the allegations only releasing this statement to eyewitness news: "Since this is a personnel matter and an active investigation the district is legally constrained from sharing any additional details at this time."

Anyone who has information is encouraged to contact the New York State Police at 631-208-9002.

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He has been released on 25k cash bail Placed video recording device in effort to record female students Cell phone Police won't say where he put cell phone. Only in locker room this only based on one incident. Wouldn't discuss Student who said this happened has been bullied on social websites. Students that are defending teacher have apparently been bullying the student online Police say they "believe" he actually recorded girls. Wouldn't comment on whether they have recording in evidence School personell discovered cell phone. They called police

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