Ex-Missouri Cop Sentenced for Stealing Nude Photos from Drivers' Phones

Julian Alcala pleaded guilty to 20 counts of violating civil rights while on duty as a Florissant police officer.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:20pm

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A former Missouri police officer named Julian Alcala was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison for secretly copying nude photos and videos from women's phones during traffic stops. Alcala pleaded guilty in December 2025 to 20 misdemeanor counts of deprivation of rights under color of law after the FBI uncovered 20 victims whose private photos and videos he had taken and shared.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious abuse of power and violation of privacy that can occur when law enforcement officers misuse their authority. It underscores the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures to prevent such egregious misconduct, especially involving the exploitation of vulnerable citizens.

The details

While on duty with the Florissant Police Department in early 2024, Alcala would search drivers' phones under the guise of checking insurance or registration, then use his own phone to capture intimate images and videos he found. One victim discovered a deleted message forwarding her video to an unknown number, which prompted the FBI investigation that uncovered 19 additional victims, some targeted on the same day.

  • In early 2024, Alcala committed the crimes while on duty as a Florissant police officer.
  • In December 2025, Alcala pleaded guilty to 20 misdemeanor counts.
  • On March 12, 2026, Alcala was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison.

The players

Julian Alcala

A 31-year-old former police officer with the Florissant Police Department in Missouri who pleaded guilty to 20 counts of violating civil rights by secretly copying nude photos and videos from women's phones during traffic stops.

Florissant Police Department

The Missouri police department where Alcala worked as an officer before being arrested and convicted for his crimes.

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What they’re saying

“Alcala has entered treatment for sex addiction and "turned his life around completely" since his 2024 arrest.”

— Alcala's lawyer

What’s next

Five federal civil suits filed on behalf of 11 people are set to resume once Alcala's criminal case concludes.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight and accountability measures within law enforcement to prevent abuses of power and violations of privacy, especially when it involves the exploitation of vulnerable citizens. It serves as a sobering reminder that no one, not even those in positions of authority, is above the law.