Rick Copeland, 55, was arrested on April 29 for one count of video voyeurism.
A preliminary report from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said on April 12, deputies responded to the Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery for a suspicious activity call.The owner of the business told WCSO that a customer reported a spy camera made to look like an ink pen was found in the women’s restroom.A search warrant was issued for the camera, and seven females were filmed.
The report said Copeland was found entering both of the vineyard’s women’s bathrooms just before the first victim was filmed.
On April 29, authorities issued and executed a search warrant of Copeland’s residence and vehicle, where electronics were previewed and seized. On some of the electronics seized, other videos of women in bathrooms “who seem to have no idea they are being filmed in this private setting” were found, the report said.
An instruction booklet for the spy pen camera was found in Copeland’s vehicle, and other spy cameras were found during WCSO’s search.
Detectives attempted to interview Copeland, however, he declined to make a statement, according to the report.
Gene Long, the owner of Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, released the following statement to KNWA/FOX24 on Friday:
“At Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, we are dedicated to providing an outstanding experience for all our guests. The safety of our customers and staff is our utmost priority. We have been working closely with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on their investigation and advise directing any further questions to them.”
A spokesperson from Washington Regional Medical Center, where he was previously employed, also released a statement:
“Mr. Copeland is no longer an employee of Washington Regional Medical Center. Upon learning of his arrest, we conducted a thorough investigation of our facilities and did not uncover anything of concern.“
In his LinkedIn account, Copeland claims to be the CEO of Facebook groups “WhatsHappening NWA” and “WhatsHappeningBentonville.com”.
Copeland was in court Friday morning at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
The judge ordered Copeland to maintain ‘no contact’ with the victims and ordered him not to possess any electronic devices with video recording capability.
The judge also declined to lower Copeland’s bond, which was initially set for $150,000, stating that she believed there was a possibility of there being more victims from seperate incidents.
Copeland’s next hearing is set for May 28.