HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Honolulu Police Department reported they arrested a 22-year-old man in March in Waikīkī after a report of unlawful recording in a public restroom.
A 37-year-old man told officers he had been recorded while he undressed. The suspect was identified and taken into custody the same day without incident.
Here’s what we know so far.
Multiple charges filed
Court documents identify the man as Donovan Jeremiah Ranon. A superseding indictment in the First Circuit Court lists eight counts of first-degree violation of privacy under Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §711-1110.9(1)(a).
The charges span from November 2024 to February 2025.
Prosecutors allege Ranon used a device to record people in restrooms and other private locations without their consent.
Locations cited include Moanalua High School, a private residence and the Waikīkī restroom linked to the March arrest.
Legal protections
Hawai‘i law prohibits installing or using devices to view, record or broadcast in private places when a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Restrooms, closed rooms and enclosed areas qualify, even when small openings exist. The law requires proof that the act was intentional or knowing and done without consent.
Potential penalties
Violation of privacy in the first degree is a felony. Court filings note that if convicted of two or more felonies, Ranon could face an extended prison term under Hawai‘i’s multiple offender statute.
Prosecutors argued an extended term may be necessary for the protection of the public.
Ranon was in court on Aug. 14 for an indictment. The judge ordered that he is prohibited from using any camera or video recording device. This includes those in standalone units, smartphones or other electronics until further notice.
As the case unfolds, KHON2.com will update the story.