Investigators say Tuong Thien Mac had been dating one of the women and may have recorded her and her two adult daughters.
HOUSTON — A 50-year-old man is facing criminal charges after investigators say he hid a recording device inside a bathroom at a southeast Houston home, secretly capturing video of three women who lived there.
Harris County Precinct 2 constables say the suspect, Tuong Thien Mac, allegedly placed the hidden camera in the restroom without the residents’ knowledge. The case began when one of the women noticed something that seemed off and called authorities.
“The complainant brought this to our attention after finding a device in the bathroom area,” said Marco Leal with the Precinct 2 Constable’s Office.
Investigators say Mac had been dating one of the women and may have recorded her and her two adult daughters. They believe it started after Mac offered to install security cameras outside the house, then used that access to plant an additional device inside the bathroom.
Leal said investigators think Mac took advantage of trust and opportunity.
“He may have been doing extra, unrelated work and took advantage of the opportunity, installing a device in an area where it never should’ve been,” Leal said.
According to investigators, Mac was captured on video setting up the camera. When they confronted him, Leal says he quickly realized the evidence was clear.
“Once we showed him his own image, he knew he was had and cooperated after that,” he said.
Even though this happened inside a private home, officials are urging people to stay alert in any restroom, public or private. They recommend checking for anything that looks out of place, including fixtures or vents.
“In a public place, inspect the facilities. Look at vents. If you don’t feel comfortable, go somewhere you feel more comfortable,” Leal said.
Investigators also hope the case serves as a reminder to be cautious about who you let inside your home, even if it’s someone you trust.
“You have to be extra careful — even with those you trust,” Leal said. “It’s OK to think otherwise. Take into consideration that the least person you expect may be responsible.”
He encouraged people to stay familiar with their surroundings: “You know your restrooms, your kitchens, your bedrooms. Take a look around and spot things that look out of place.”
Precinct 2 constables are asking anyone who has recently been in close contact with Mac to inspect their home for anything suspicious and to contact their office if they find something concerning.
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