Green light for hidden anti-theft cameras

23 June 2005

BRUSSELS — The Supreme Court has ruled in favour of allowing employers the use of a hidden camera to detect crimes committed by staff.

The ruling was handed down on 2 March, but was only published in legal newspaper Juristenkrant on Wednesday. The ruling ends a long period of uncertainty over the practice.

The case relates to a cash register who was caught on a hidden camera for stealing. She was filmed keying in incorrect information into the register.

The woman claimed in court the evidence was obtained illegally and should be declared inadmissible.

However, the Supreme Court came to a different opinion. It said no criminal proceedings would be possible if such evidence was removed from admissibility.

It said an employer may install cameras, but that certain regulations must be respected, newspaper ‘Het Laatste Nieuws’ reported.

Employers must inform staff that cameras are being installed and clearly tell them what the cameras are used for.

The cameras may not be used for another purpose.

Subject: Belgian news