ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The Elk Grove Police Department arrested a suspect connected to hidden cameras discovered in women’s restrooms at two community parks.

On March 5, detectives with the Elk Grove Police Department were notified of two separate incidents involving hidden cameras discovered in the women’s restrooms toilets at two community parks: Elk Grove Regional Park and Jan Rau Park.

One camera was located by a Cosumnes Community Services District (CSD) employee, and the second was discovered by a community member.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and understand the impact it has on our community. The safety of park visitors is a top priority, and our staff takes that responsibility seriously,” said Cosumnes Community Services District General Manager Tim Ogden. “We worked closely with the Elk Grove Police Department throughout this investigation and appreciate their quick and thorough efforts in identifying and apprehending a suspect.”

Officers and Cosumnes Community Services District Parks staff conducted a thorough and extensive check of all park restrooms throughout Elk Grove. No additional cameras were located.

Cosumnes Community Services District immediately took steps to reduce the likelihood of this type of incident, including increasing awareness among staff and contractors, reinforcing daily inspection protocols for park facilities, and strengthening coordination with law enforcement.

The police department’s Real Time Information Center (RTIC) reviewed video footage from a park camera as well as a traffic camera in the area and discovered the same vehicle present at each location where the cameras were found. Using automated license plate reader data, the vehicle’s license plate was identified.

Real Time Information Center personnel also located a prior call for service in which the suspect had previously been identified. Detectives confirmed the suspect as 37-year-old William Raasch of Sacramento.

Detectives obtained a search warrant and collected digital evidence from Raasch’s residence. During the investigation and review of additional video evidence. Detectives learned Raasch placed hidden cameras in at least two other community parks.

Investigators also discovered that Raasch had altered his appearance on some occasions to resemble a female in an apparent effort to avoid detection.

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Raasch on 12 counts of Penal Code § 647(j)(3), photographing or videotaping an undressed person in a private area, and three counts of Penal Code § 632(a), eavesdropping. Raasch was taken into custody on March 26, and booked into the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center.

Detectives believe Raasch may have previously placed cameras in restrooms at Kloss Park and Zimbelman Park. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the department’s investigation bureau by calling 916-478-8060.