Police on Tuesday arrested a suspected hotel voyeur in Petaluma who claimed he was inspired by reality television shows.
According to police, the suspect, 30-year-old Javier Martinez of Berkeley, was first reported to police after he was seen by an alleged victim on his hands and knees peeping under guests’ doors the previous night at the Sheraton Hotel in Petaluma.
The victim told police he briefly spoke with Martinez in the hotel lounge the night before, but did not know him.
Officers had also learned that Martinez had changed his original room to that victim’s adjoining room.
Police say Martinez had been staying at the hotel for over a week.
When officers contacted Martinez in his room, police say he admitted to looking under guests’ doors so he could determine which ones were corner rooms so he could change his room.
During a search of the room, officers discovered a camera found actively recording under the victim’s adjoining door.
Officers also recovered electronic recording devices, external electronic data storage devices, fiber-optic cameras, and tools that could potentially be used to install the cameras.
According to police, Martinez claimed his activities were “innocent in nature and inspired by television reality shows.”
He was arrested and booked for unlawful peeping.
Police say information gathered suggests Martinez is a frequent guest with the Sheraton chain of hotels.
Police say due to the amount of seized electronic data, there is a potential for more victims.
The investigation is ongoing.
If you have any information related to Martinez’ suspected activities, contact the Petaluma Police Department at 707-778-4372.