MCPS Worker Accused of Secretly Filming Students Released on Bond

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A Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) employee accused of recording underage students inside a high school changing room has been released on a $10,000 bond, as new details about his background have emerged. James Mulhern III, 43, of Clarksburg, Maryland, is facing sex abuse of a minor charges after students found a hidden camera in a theater control booth at Walter Johnson High School.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the safety and privacy of students, as well as the vetting process for MCPS employees who work closely with minors. It also highlights the need for stronger policies and oversight to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

The details

According to court documents, students reviewing the camera's memory card found videos recorded inside a girls' changing room, showing a man placing the camera. The school principal later identified the person as Mulhern, a media services technician. Mulhern initially denied placing the camera but later admitted to it after being shown screenshots from the footage. He also admitted to having an inappropriate attraction to multiple students at the school.

• On April 7, students at Walter Johnson High School found a video camera in a theater control booth.
• On April 15, search warrants were executed at the school and Mulhern's home, leading to the recovery of the camera and more electronic devices.
• On April 17, Mulhern was granted an unsecured personal bond of $10,000 during a hearing in the District Court of Maryland.

What’s next

The investigation remains active, and police have not said whether more victims may be involved.