Felony charge filed after resident installs trail camera to identify alleged peeper

A 29-year-old Rhinelander man is facing a felony charge of capturing an intimate representation after a local resident set up a trail camera in an effort to determine who was walking around their home and looking into their windows.

According to a criminal complaint filed on April 1, the resident became concerned after repeatedly noticing footprints in the snow leading to their bedroom and bathroom windows.

The trail camera captured images of a white male outside the home. Police later identified the male as Tyler RL Michel. When confronted by investigators, Michel admitted to taking nude or partially nude photos of the individual who set up the camera, the complaint states.

“I just had an urge” he said, according to the criminal complaint, referring to his behavior as voyeurism. He also told the officers he’s “harmless” and “this will never happen again,” according to the complaint.

According to court records, Michel made his initial appearance in Oneida County Court on April 1 at which time bond was set at $1,000 cash.

He is to have no contact with the alleged victim and must abide by specific rules with respect to the use of devices used to record video and take photos.

A preliminary hearing in this case is set for May 8.

The Class I felony is punishable by up to 3 1/2 years in prison.