Hidden Camera Found in Lynchburg Store Fitting Room, Employee Charged

Shopper's quick thinking leads to discovery of recording device, uncovering disturbing evidence against store employee.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A shopper at a Dick's Sporting Goods store in Lynchburg, Virginia discovered a hidden camera inside a women's fitting room, leading to the arrest of a 26-year-old employee, Derek Beard. Authorities later found multiple recording devices and storage cards containing videos of nude women and underage girls in Beard's possession. Beard is facing charges including child pornography and is being held without bail.

Why it matters

The discovery of the hidden camera highlights the growing concern over the use of surveillance devices in private spaces, and the need for increased vigilance and security measures to protect individuals' privacy. This incident also raises questions about the hiring practices of retailers and the importance of thorough background checks, especially for positions that involve access to private areas.

The details

According to court documents, the shopper found what appeared to be a pen tucked into a hole in the baseboard of a dressing room. The molding had been cut away, and upon closer inspection, she noticed a small lens inside the device. She placed it in her purse and immediately contacted the police. Authorities later identified the suspect as 26-year-old Derek Beard. Investigators say searches of his home and vehicle uncovered multiple recording devices and storage cards containing videos of nude women and underage girls inside the changing room. Some of the files were labeled with names and schools.

  • On Saturday, the shopper discovered the hidden camera in the fitting room.
  • Beard was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including child pornography.
  • Beard's next court hearing is scheduled for May.

The players

Derek Beard

A 26-year-old employee of Dick's Sporting Goods who was charged with multiple offenses, including child pornography, after a hidden camera was found in a women's fitting room at the store.

Dick's Sporting Goods

The retail chain where the hidden camera was discovered in a women's fitting room.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She was aware enough to find it. The problem is most people are unaware.”

— Chris Ragone, Bodyguard and personal security expert

“A dead giveaway is anything that looks out of place. Why would someone leave a cellphone charger block plugged in in that outlet, or you know, that clock is looking kinda — why would someone put a clock there.”

— Chris Ragone, Bodyguard and personal security expert

“One of the best things to do is to report it to law enforcement.”

— Katie Jennings, Assistant communications manager, Lynchburg Police Department

What’s next

Beard's next court hearing is scheduled for May, where the judge will determine whether he will be granted bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and security measures to protect individuals' privacy, as well as the need for thorough background checks and hiring practices by retailers to prevent such incidents from occurring. It also underscores the growing concern over the use of surveillance devices in private spaces and the need for increased awareness and reporting of suspicious activities.