'I know it's disturbing': Former school custodian admits placing recording phone in faculty bathroom

WATERFORD TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- A former custodian at Waterford Elementary School admitted to placing a cell phone in a faculty bathroom that was recording, according to court documents and statements he made to Action News.

Skyler Moore, 20, of Clementon, told Action News that he hid the phone in the faculty bathroom during the summer while working at the school as a custodian. The victim was an employee of a summer program being held at the school.

"I should've - instead of putting the phone in the bathroom - I should've just went and talked to one of my colleagues and told them, ' Hey, I'm not thinking straight, I need to talk to someone,'" Moore said.

According to court documents, the adult victim was using the bathroom at the school on Aug. 14 when she noticed a cell phone disguised with a towel and cleaning supplies. The victim told police that when she picked up the phone, it was actively recording.

Staff members were notified and police were called. Moore was charged with invasion of privacy and tampering with evidence.

Moore told Action News he did not intend to distribute any recordings.

"I wasn't going to share it or post it online or anything," Moore said. "I know it's disturbing. I know. I know it's messed up."

According to court documents, Moore told police he was attracted to the victim and purposely placed the phone on the bathroom floor to record her.

Police said the incident occurred while a third-party program was using the school and that there is no indication any juveniles were recorded. Officials also said no students were victimized.

According to a memo issued by the school district superintendent, Moore was terminated from his position.

Residents said they were disturbed that the incident occurred in an elementary school.

"He's invading their privacy. He's making them feel uncomfortable. And no one should do that to one another," Marge Byrne of Audubon said.

Police believe the case is an isolated incident and no children are believed to have been victimized.

The school superintendent said Moore underwent all state-required background checks when he was hired last year.

Moore is scheduled to appear in court next month.