Elk Grove Police arrest suspect in hidden restroom camera investigation
Investigators used video footage from park and traffic cameras, along with automated license plate reader data, to identify a vehicle seen at both locations
A Sacramento man has been arrested in connection with hidden cameras discovered inside women’s restrooms at two Elk Grove parks, authorities said Thursday.
The investigation began March 5 when detectives with the Elk Grove Police Department were notified of two separate incidents involving concealed cameras found in restroom toilets at Elk Grove Regional Park and Jan Rau Park. One device was located by a Cosumnes Community Services District employee, and the other by a park visitor.
Police said officers and parks staff conducted a comprehensive search of restroom facilities across the city but did not locate any additional devices.
Cosumnes CSD General Manager Tim Ogden said the agency is “deeply concerned” about the incident and emphasized that visitor safety remains a top priority. He said the district worked closely with police and has since increased staff awareness, reinforced inspection protocols and strengthened coordination with law enforcement.
Investigators used video footage from park and traffic cameras, along with automated license plate reader data, to identify a vehicle seen at both locations. The vehicle was traced to 37-year-old William Raasch of Sacramento, police said.
Detectives later served a search warrant at Raasch’s residence and collected digital evidence. During the investigation, authorities said they determined Raasch had placed hidden cameras in at least two additional community parks. Investigators also allege he altered his appearance on some occasions to resemble a woman in an apparent effort to avoid detection.
Raasch was arrested Thursday and booked into the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center. He will be arraigned on March 30 and is not currently eligible for bail
He faces 12 counts of photographing or videotaping an undressed person in a private area and three counts of eavesdropping, according to police.
Detectives believe additional incidents may have occurred at Kloss Park and Zimbelman Park.
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the Elk Grove Police Department’s Investigations Bureau at 916-478-8060.
