Sikeston police looking for more victims in YMCA videotaping case

SIKESTON, Mo. — As the Sikeston Department of Public Safety continues its investigation into allegations of invasion of privacy in the bathroom at the YMCA of Southeast Missouri, authorities are seeking other possible victims.

Some of those victims may be in another state, police said.

Capt. Michael Williams said the department is working with the full cooperation of the YMCA to investigate the allegations Earl A. Madison, 19, a part-time employee, used his cellphone to take video of an 18-year-old man while he was using the restroom.

Williams was arrested at 4:44 p.m. Sunday at the YMCA.

“All of Earl Madison’s electronic devices, such as phone and computers, were seized and will be forensically searched,” Williams said in a news release. “The full extent of this investigation will take weeks to months to complete.”

According to the officer, all victims will be notified as soon as possible by investigators. Williams asked anyone who knows of similar incidents or information involving Madison to call the department at (573) 471-4711.

Madison, who was released from jail after posting a $15,000 surety bond, is scheduled to be arraigned at 9 a.m. Feb. 24 on three counts of first-degree invasion of privacy.

Madison’s arrest came after the 18-year-old victim said he was working out in the gym and had just spoken with Madison before entering the restroom. As the complainant was using the restroom, he looked up to see a cellphone recording him.

During the initial interview with officers, Madison gave permission to search his phone, where several videos were discovered of male subjects in various stages of undress.

He later admitted to investigators he had videotaped men in the locker room while working at the YMCA over the past year, police said.

The men all were similar in age to Madison, Williams said.

During the interview process, Madison also admitted to similar incidents where he attended college in a different state. Williams said there will be a joint investigation with that jurisdiction.

Pertinent address:

Sikeston, Mo.