Wisconsin Police Catch 'Serial Pooper' With A Collection Of Tech

Authorities used drones and trail cameras to identify and cite a 46-year-old woman for indecent conduct.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Police in Stoughton, Wisconsin used a system of drones and trail cameras to catch a 'serial defecator' who was leaving feces and toilet paper along a park's walking path. After receiving dozens of complaints, authorities were able to identify a 46-year-old woman who admitted to using the bathroom at a certain time and place every day. She was cited for indecent conduct, though police say she is not homeless and does not appear to have any mental health concerns.

Why it matters

This case highlights how advanced surveillance technology is being used by law enforcement to address quality of life issues in public spaces. While the behavior was disruptive and unsanitary, it also raises questions about privacy, civil liberties, and whether criminal charges were warranted for what may have been a mental health issue.

The details

Over several weeks, police received dozens of complaints about feces and toilet paper being found along a park's walking path in Stoughton. To catch the culprit, authorities set up a system of drones and trail cameras to monitor the area. The cameras captured a pattern, and the drones were able to identify a 46-year-old woman in the act of defecating in the park during the early morning hours. Police then made contact with the woman, who admitted to the behavior but said she did not believe she had any mental health concerns. She was cited for indecent conduct.

  • Police began receiving complaints about the issue in early 2026.
  • Authorities set up the surveillance system of drones and trail cameras to monitor the park.
  • The woman was caught in the act and cited for indecent conduct in February 2026.

The players

Stoughton Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that investigated the 'serial pooper' case and used advanced surveillance technology to identify and cite the suspect.

46-year-old woman

The individual who was caught on camera defecating in the park and cited by police for indecent conduct.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When we first learned of it, we thought it was going to be isolated. But then with neighbors and users of the park continuing to call us to complain about it, I realized that it wasn't going away.”

— Lt. Chad O'Neil, Stoughton Police Department (97x.com)

What’s next

The case will likely be reviewed by the local prosecutor's office to determine if any further charges will be filed against the woman.

The takeaway

This incident highlights how advanced surveillance technology is being leveraged by law enforcement to address quality of life issues in public spaces, though it also raises concerns about privacy and whether criminal charges were warranted in this case.