Anthony Yates
An Australian trainee surgeon is facing more than 130 charges for allegedly filming hundreds of women in hospital bathrooms.
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What happened: According to a report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), trainee surgeon 28-year-old Ryan Cho is accused of recording more than 460 people in several hospitals. He allegedly filmed in toilets and showers at Austin Hospital, Royal Melbourne Hospital, and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
The outlet reveals that Cho was charged with stalking last month after a staff member found a hidden camera in the toilet. Since then, authorities have charged him with an additional 127 offenses.
- Authorities reportedly say the charges are related to installing the cameras, stalking, and “producing intimate images.” ABC cites a police statement which reads, “It’s alleged a mobile phone was used as a recording device in staff toilets at all three hospitals named so far.”
The Surgeon’s Defense Barrister Alleges His Client Has Mental Health Issues
Despite the number of charges against the surgeon, the court has granted Cho bail. His defense barrister allegedly said his client has “complex psychiatric and psychological issues.”
It’s unknown how long court proceedings will take, but the barrister reportedly expects the case to face delays. The prosecution believes the case could go to trial in the latter half of 2026.
The Trainee Surgeon’s Bail Has Strict Conditions
Banned from hospitals: Per ABC, Justice James Elliott said on Friday that Cho’s bail comes with “very strict conditions.” The requirements include a curfew and living with his parents, who’ve reportedly paid a $32,000 surety.
- The trainee surgeon has been banned from hospitals except in an emergency. According to AP News, his parents moved from Singapore to Melbourne so he could stay with them.
- The prosecution argued that Cho may try to flee if he is granted bail. They said he has no ties to Australia after being suspended from his job. Per AP, the prosecution also highlighted that Cho became a permanent Australian resident in April. He could be deported if he were sentenced to 12 months or more in prison.
Justice James Elliott reportedly stated that Cho has no connections to help him leave the country and has surrendered his passport.
