PONTIAC - A former Chatsworth bar owner accused of having a hidden video camera taping women in a changing room and a restroom now faces 18 new charges.
William J. Lutson, 57, of Chatsworth, is accused of hiding the camera with a live feed and recorder in the women's restroom in the Grand Ole Bar in Chatsworth. Authorities also say he had a camera and recorder in a tanning salon changing room that is in the same building as the bar.
Authorities have been able to identify 12 victims from the videos, which were seized by police in late July. Initial charges alleged the camera had been filming women from mid-2005 to July 26, 2006.
Additional charges have been added as victims were identified, authorities have said.
On Thursday, Assistant State's Attorney Carey Luckman added the 18 new charges, two of which are felonies because a minor was involved. The rest are misdemeanors.
The two new Class 3 felonies allege that on April 18, 2005, Lutson had a live video feed and recorded a minor in the tanning bed changing room without her consent. If convicted, Lutson could face up to five years in prison.
The Class A misdemeanors allege that on July 9 or 10, 2005, Lutson had a live video feed and recorded females in the bar restroom without their consent.
A conviction on the misdemeanors could carry fines up to $2,500 and one year in jail.
Lutson, who sold the bar earlier this month, already faces two felonies and four misdemeanors in the case. Those charges also stem from the July 9 or 10, 2005, incident, and the felonies involve a minor.
Luckman asked Thursday for an increased bond for Lutson, but that was denied. Lutson previously posted $5,000 cash and was released from Livingston County jail.
He is due back in court in December.
Posted in News on Thursday, October 19, 2006 12:00 am Updated: 11:00 am.
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