With only 24 hours of investigation following the discovery of secret recording devices in his possession, 54-year-old Goleta resident Steven Schapansky, a teacher at Santa Barbara Charter School, was arrested on suspicion of secretly recording minors in several locations, including restrooms and locker rooms at the school.
The investigation began when deputies received a report on July 12th regarding a report of recording devices in Schapansky’s possession. Following this report, detectives identified Schapansky as the suspect and proceeded with his arrest. He was booked transported to Santa Barbara County Jail and booked on a misdemeanor charge of invasion of privacy with a recording device.
According to SBSD spokesman Lt. Jarrett Morris, “recordings were found from various locations where minors would change their clothing.” Detectives are now conducting an extensive follow-up to identify the juvenile victims who were unknowingly recorded. These recordings were captured in areas “specifically designated for changing clothes,” raising serious privacy concerns.
The school’s administration has placed Schapansky on leave pending further investigation.