The Woodlands, TX – Authorities have identified eight victims in a growing investigation into hidden cameras found inside bathrooms at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Woodlands, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). Former hospital supervisor Robert Shrader, arrested in late August, faces charges of invasive visual recording as detectives continue to uncover disturbing new evidence.
The Incident: Hidden Cameras Discovered Inside Hospital Bathrooms
The investigation began on August 21, when construction workers performing maintenance at Memorial Hermann Hospital’s West Tower discovered a concealed recording device in a single-stall unisex bathroom located near the labor and delivery unit.
According to an internal hospital notice obtained by KHOU 11, the first camera was found inside an HVAC vent, prompting an immediate internal review. When security staff examined the micro SD card attached to the camera, they reportedly discovered 176 images of unsuspecting individuals using the restroom.
Further inspection revealed footage showing Shrader himself installing the device, linking him directly to the recordings. Just days later, on August 25, a second hidden camera was discovered in a public restroom within the hospital’s Medical Surgery Unit on the third floor, containing 131 additional images.
Investigation and Evidence Collected by Authorities
Following the discovery, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office launched a criminal investigation. On August 27, deputies executed a search warrant at Shrader’s home in Magnolia, where they recovered additional SD cards and an unopened camera box.
Detectives say Shrader, a former patient care director, installed multiple cameras in both staff and public restrooms, targeting employees, patients, and visitors. The MCSO confirmed that eight victims have now been identified, but warned that more may emerge as investigators continue reviewing recovered footage.
“We understand that this is a tremendous violation of privacy,” said Sheriff Rand Henderson in a statement. “For individuals already dealing with the stress of being in a hospital, to learn that their privacy was violated in such a way is truly unconscionable. This is a perversion that we will not tolerate in our community.”
Investigators have urged anyone who believes they may have been recorded to contact the sheriff’s office at mhtwtips@wctx.org.
Court Proceedings and Legal Actions
Shrader was arrested on August 27 and charged with invasive visual recording, a felony offense in Texas. According to court documents, the recordings contained images of adults and possibly minors, taken without consent.
A civil lawsuit has also been filed against Shrader by a nurse at the hospital, who said the hidden cameras recorded her in multiple stages of undress. The lawsuit accuses Shrader of causing severe mental anguish, emotional distress, and psychological trauma, describing the experience as “a complete violation of trust.”
As the investigation continues, prosecutors are reviewing additional charges, including potential counts related to child exploitation and invasion of privacy.
Statements and Public Reaction
Memorial Hermann Hospital issued a formal statement on August 27, condemning Shrader’s conduct and confirming his immediate termination.
“We are shocked, deeply upset, and offended by this individual’s illegal and reprehensible behavior,” the hospital said. “This incident has affected our workforce, patients, and the communities we serve at our Woodlands Campus. We have zero tolerance for such conduct and immediately engaged law enforcement.”
The hospital also stated that comprehensive security sweeps have been performed across all facilities and that it is working closely with law enforcement to ensure patient safety and privacy.
“Our highest priority is ensuring the safety, privacy, and well-being of everyone who enters our facilities,” the statement continued. “We are fully cooperating with the investigation and providing compassionate support to those affected.”
Expert Insight: How to Detect Hidden Cameras
Local digital forensic expert Coleman Ryan told KHOU 11 that while hidden cameras in public restrooms are uncommon, they are not impossible to detect.
“Be aware of anything that might not look right — like a charger or device left behind,” Ryan explained. “Some of these cameras are small enough to hide inside vents, dispensers, or light fixtures.”
Ryan recommended using tools like BLE Scanner, a free app that detects nearby Bluetooth signals commonly used by wireless cameras.
“When you walk into a bathroom, there shouldn’t be any Bluetooth devices showing up,” he said. “That’s your first warning sign.”
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
The MCSO has not yet disclosed the total duration of the recordings or how long the devices had been in place. Investigators are continuing to analyze the recovered data and identify potential additional victims, including minors.
“We are sympathetic to our victims and are committed to bringing them justice,” Sheriff Henderson added. “Our investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to work tirelessly on their behalf.”
Shrader remains out on bond as the criminal investigation and civil proceedings move forward. Authorities have emphasized that more charges could be filed as digital forensics experts process evidence.
Conclusion
The discovery of hidden cameras at Memorial Hermann Hospital has shaken both staff and patients, highlighting the importance of strict privacy safeguards in healthcare settings. As the investigation continues, officials are urging anyone who believes they may have been affected to come forward and assist in bringing justice to all victims.
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