Australian trainee Surgeon granted bail in covert recording case

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Friday, August 22nd, 2025

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Melbourne, August 22 – A 28-year-old trainee surgeon, Ryan Cho, has been released on bail after being accused of secretly recording thousands of videos of hospital colleagues in staff restrooms across Melbourne hospitals.
Victoria Police allege Cho captured 4,500 intimate videos, primarily using mobile phones hidden in hospital restrooms, between 2021 and 2024. The recordings were reportedly made at the Austin Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Investigators believe at least 460 women were among the victims.
Justice James Elliott of the Victoria Supreme Court approved Cho’s release on strict conditions, including residence with his parents, who relocated from Singapore, and the surrender of his passport. His family also posted a 50,000 Australian dollar ($32,000) surety.
Prosecutors argued that Cho posed a flight risk given the severity of charges and the likelihood of deportation if convicted, despite becoming an Australian permanent resident in April. Cho faces potential charges exceeding 500 counts, including intentionally recording intimate images without consent.
The investigation began after hospital staff discovered a mobile phone hidden in a restroom at Austin Hospital. Additional allegations link Cho to similar acts in two other hospitals. While police confirmed the extensive recordings, there is no evidence that any images were shared or distributed.
Cho’s defense lawyer dismissed concerns of witness interference, noting the overwhelming number of alleged victims and the absence of prior criminal connections.
Cho was initially charged with six counts, with 127 additional charges added Thursday. The case continues to attract public attention for its scale and breach of medical workplace trust.