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Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-901

Current as of January 01, 2025 | Updated by Findlaw Staff

(a)(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Private place” means a dressing room or rest room in a retail store.

(3) “Visual surveillance” means surveillance by:

(i) direct sight;

(ii) the use of mirrors;

(iii) the use of cameras; or

(iv) the use of an electronic device that can be used surreptitiously to observe an individual.

(b) This section does not apply to any otherwise lawful surveillance conducted by a law enforcement officer while performing official duties.

(c) A person may not conduct or procure another to conduct visual surveillance of an individual in a private place without the consent of that individual.

(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

(e) It is not a defense to a prosecution under this section that the defendant owns the premises where the private place is located.

(f)(1) An individual who was under visual surveillance in violation of this section has a civil cause of action against any person who conducted or procured a person to conduct the visual surveillance.

(2) In an action under this subsection, the court may award actual damages and reasonable attorney's fees.

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Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-901 - last updated January 01, 2025 | https://codes.findlaw.com/md/criminal-law/md-code-crim-law-sect-3-901/

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