Woman Claims Camera Found in Potomac Yard Target Dressing Room

A Woman’s Discovery Sparks Concerns About Fitting Room Safety

A local woman in Alexandria, Virginia, recently shared a disturbing experience that has raised questions about the safety of fitting rooms in retail stores. According to reports, she discovered a hidden camera inside a Target fitting room, prompting her to take immediate action. Her story highlights the importance of vigilance and the need for stronger security measures in public spaces.

The Incident at Target

The incident occurred at the Target store located near Potomac Yard on the afternoon of Friday, July 18. Tomecia Thorn, a longtime military police officer, was shopping for fall clothes when she entered one of the fitting rooms. As she stepped inside, she noticed a small item—specifically, a scrunchie—on top of one of the mirrors. At first, she thought it might have been left behind by another customer.

However, something about the object caught her attention. She noticed a faint glare that resembled a lens. Curious, she reached up and discovered that the scrunchie was actually a compartment designed to hold small items like money or Chapstick. Inside, there was a hidden camera.

Immediate Action and Response

Thorn immediately gathered her belongings and exited the fitting room. She then approached a store associate and informed them of what she had found. The associates quickly closed the fitting rooms and contacted the police. Alexandria police confirmed that a report was filed regarding the incident.

Thorn also took the initiative to write a letter to Target, suggesting ways to improve the safety of fitting rooms for all customers. In her letter, she recommended that if the store continues to offer co-ed changing rooms, there should be someone stationed at the front desk at all times to monitor the area.

Despite her concerns, Thorn felt that the response from Target was insufficient. She said the company sent a generic reply, which did not address her specific recommendations. She emphasized the need for more proactive measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Target’s Statement

In response to the situation, a Target spokesperson released a statement to FOX 5. The statement emphasized the company’s commitment to guest and employee safety, mentioning that they have “robust procedures, policies and training in place” to ensure a secure environment. The spokesperson added that they have no tolerance for such behavior and that they intervened as soon as they became aware of the issue.

Target also stated that they provided the Alexandria Police Department with any necessary information for their investigation and would direct further inquiries to the authorities.

The Broader Implications

Thorn’s experience serves as a reminder to everyone to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. As a former military police officer, she understands the importance of taking action when something seems off. Her warning is clear: if you see something that looks unusual, do not ignore it.

This incident also raises broader concerns about the security of fitting rooms in retail stores. While Target and other retailers have implemented various safety measures, this case highlights the need for continuous evaluation and improvement of these protocols.

Recommendations for Retailers

Retailers can take several steps to enhance the safety of fitting rooms:

• Install Surveillance Systems: Cameras can deter unauthorized installations and help identify potential threats.
• Increase Staff Presence: Having staff members monitor fitting room areas can prevent and detect hidden cameras.
• Regular Inspections: Conducting routine checks of fitting rooms can help identify any suspicious devices before they are used.
• Customer Education: Informing customers about how to recognize hidden cameras and what to do if they find one can empower them to act quickly.

By implementing these measures, retailers can create a safer environment for both customers and employees. Thorn’s experience is a valuable lesson that underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive safety efforts.