VALRICO, Fla. — The Bloomingdale High School teacher accused of video voyeurism apparently has been taping students since last year.
- Deputies: Teacher charged with voyeurism taping students since last year
- Mark Ackett, 49, arrested and charged Sept. 11 when student found phone
- Previous story on this case
According to new documents released by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, the alleged video taping of a student in a changing room was not the first instance.
Fashion design teacher Mark Ackett, 49, was arrested Sept. 11 after a student found a hidden cell phone recording her changing in a dressing room in class.
Now, newly released documents show that Ackett admitted he has been taping students since 2017.
Investigators said they uncovered two cell phones, three digital cameras and multiple memory devices in Ackett's classroom.
He has resigned from the school district since his arrest and charges of video voyeurism.
Authorities said when they searched the cell phones, they found eight videos on one phone, which included at least two videos of underage girls changing clothes.
Ackett, who worked in the school district for 27 years, is currently out on bond awaiting a court appearance.
Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins would not comment on the investigation, but stressed the administration is working to keep students safe.
"I want no part of that (secret recording) in Hillsborough County public schools for our students," Eakins said. "We're doing everything we can to provide services for our students there and support for our students there."
The Hillsborough County School Board also released the following statement Friday:
"We are cooperating in every way with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Because this is an ongoing criminal investigation, we cannot comment on the specific details.
Our number one concern is our students. The leaders and counselors at the school have been working with students since we first learned about these stunning and disturbing allegations last week. Our mental health and crisis response professionals have been involved since day one and will remain in close contact with the school to help any student in need.
We and our entire community place trust in our teachers. It is devastating for all of us when a teacher breaks that trust."