Joshua Kohut, a research dean at Rutgers University, has been charged with fourth-degree invasion of privacy for allegedly using his cellphone to record "up-skirt" videos without victims' knowledge. The accusation came to light after investigators seized an electronic device belonging to Kohut under a warrant, according to prosecutors.
Kohut, 51, is described as a Dean of Research for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers. His work has involved research and education programs focused on storm intensity, offshore wind, and polar ecosystems in Antarctica. He holds a Ph.D. in Physical Oceanography from Rutgers and has been a faculty member since 2008.
"The defendant is alleged to have used his mobile phone to record ‘upskirt’ videos without his victim’s knowledge. An invasion of privacy like this is not just disturbing, it is also a criminal act. We will prosecute accordingly," stated Attorney General Davenport.
Following the charges, Rutgers University placed Kohut on administrative leave. He is also banned from campus pending the outcome of an internal investigation. The university has stated it is cooperating with the investigation.
If convicted, Kohut could face up to 18 months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.