Camera found in girls' bathroom at John Hancock College Prep

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A camera was found in a girls' bathroom at a South Side Chicago high school, according to school officials.

Officials at John Hancock College Prep informed families of students that a camera was found in the first floor of a girls' bathroom Monday afternoon. The letter sent to families said they are "confident that no images have been transmitted."

The letter also said all bathrooms and locker rooms in the school have been checked to make sure no other cameras exist.

The school principal, Karen Boran, said in the letter that the Chicago Police Department and the CPS Office of Safety and Security was notified. An investigation is underway.

FULL STATEMENT SENT TO PARENTS FROM PRINCIPAL KAREN BORAN

November 8, 2016

Dear Hancock Families,

The safety of your children is always our top priority, which is why we must inform you of a situation that was discovered recently at our school. Late Monday afternoon, a camera was found in the first-floor girls' bathroom. We alerted the authorities, including the Chicago Police Department and CPS Office of Safety and Security, as soon as we became aware of the situation, and an investigation is now underway.

Based on the type of camera found, we are confident that no images have been transmitted. Additionally, all bathrooms and locker rooms in our school have been thoroughly checked to make sure that no other cameras exist.

This is an upsetting situation for our students and staff, which is why members of the CPS Crisis Intervention team were at school today to provide assistance. Our school will continue supporting students in the days ahead, and will work closely with CPD and the Office of Safety and Security on their investigation.

I regret any distress this situation may cause your family, and encourage you to contact me directly with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Karen Boran, Ed.D.
Principal