Iowa Woman Sues Boss, American Family Over Camera in Restroom

A Waverly, Iowa woman is suing her former boss after a video camera was found in the office restroom.

Deanna Miller filed a lawsuit in Black Hawk County District Court against American Family Insurance and agent Robert Speirs, 53, of Grundy Center. She claims civil invasion of privacy, slander and sexual harassment.

According to the lawsuit, another employee at the office went to police in December when she noticed a wireless camera pointed at the toilet. She said a receiver and monitor were in Speir’s desk drawer.

Speirs told authorities that the camera was installed because he suspected drug use in the restroom.

Police arrested him for misdemeanor invasion of privacy, saying the camera was likely for arousing or gratifying sexual desires.

Speirs has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges, and trial was set for May 16.

Miller’s lawyer, Michael Bandy of Waterloo, said Speirs was fired from the company, which left his client without a job.

Miller is asking for damages to cover her loss of employment, loss of medical insurance, mental anguish and emotional distress.