Thomas Jason Connell filmed women and children changing costumes at theatre

In Edinburgh, Scotland, a 27-year-old entertainer, Thomas Jason Connell, was found guilty of multiple sex offences involving voyeurism and child abuse. The shocking crimes took place over several years, with Connell using a covert camera to capture women and children during costume changes in theatre dressing rooms and while supervising children at a swimming pool. The incidents garnered widespread condemnation after being reported to the police following an unannounced visit to Connell’s home. The police seized Connell's mobile phone, which revealed an extensive collection of incriminating videos, including footage of both children and adults without their consent. Among the findings were videos of children aged between 11 and 16 undressing backstage at theatres, and another 48-minute video showing children at a swimming pool, where they were caught in various states of undress. The victims described the experience as a violation of trust. Connell's actions were not limited to the theatre and pool setting. He admitted to having 'experimented with voyeurism' during his earlier conviction for indecent images. After the police investigation, they found evidence indicating he had used hidden cameras in private spaces, such as bathrooms, resulting in numerous video clips capturing women showering. The investigation into Connell's conduct highlighted a pattern of predatory behavior that was both alarming and invasive. Upon his court appearance on December 10, Connell pleaded guilty to eight charges and has since been placed on the sex offenders register for a two-year duration. His lawyer indicated that further mitigation will be presented at the sentencing hearing, which awaits the results of social work reports and a risk assessment. The court's decision to remand him in custody underscores the gravity of his offenses and the need for thorough evaluation before determining a sentence.