A former superintendent of California State Parks is facing serious legal repercussions following allegations of covertly recording male employees in a staff locker room. Kevin Pearsall, aged 59, has been charged with multiple offences, including 23 counts of secret filming, five counts of eavesdropping, and three counts of unlawfully distributing private recordings.
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The charges originate from a number of incidents that allegedly took place at the Bolsa Chica State Beach Lifeguard Headquarters in Huntington Beach. Prosecutors claim that Pearsall used hidden cameras to capture both audio and video of 23 male employees over an 11-month period commencing in August 2024. In a further disturbing twist, he is accused of sharing nude images of at least three of these employees with two other individuals.
The investigation was triggered in July 2025 when a sworn officer from California State Parks discovered a USB drive in the men’s employee locker room. This device reportedly contained explicit images of employees undressing. Following this revelation, the California Highway Patrol was alerted, prompting an extensive inquiry into the matter.
Pearsall, who had a long history with the parks department dating back to 1994, was placed on administrative leave during the investigation. He chose to retire shortly after the authorities executed search warrants in July 2025. Until his retirement, he had held the superintendent position since 2023, a key role responsible for managing operations across the state parks within the Orange Coast District, which includes areas in Orange County.
Allegations suggest that Pearsall’s hidden cameras were specifically positioned in a locker room limited to full-time personnel, seasonal lifeguards, office staff, and maintenance aides. Prosecutors have confirmed that at least 23 different individuals had their bodies filmed without consent, as Pearsall reportedly made inappropriate comments regarding his employees’ bodies during these recordings.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed concern over the breach of trust, stating, “Instead of protecting his employees, Pearsall used his position to spy on the men who worked for him. These victims had their privacy violated in such a disgusting way, and we will do everything we can to ensure they receive the justice they deserve.”
Pearsall turned himself in to law enforcement on June 23. After his arrest, he was released on his own recognizance. Should he be convicted of all charges, he could face a significant prison sentence of up to 18 years and eight months. His arraignment is set for August 6.
In light of the unfolding events, a representative from the California State Parks articulated the department’s commitment to addressing the situation. They stated that the organisation takes these allegations very seriously and has fully cooperated with law enforcement throughout the investigation. Furthermore, they indicated that they are providing employee assistance and victim support services to personnel within the Orange Coast District.
As more information emerges regarding this alarming case, it highlights the severe consequences that can arise from violations of trust and privacy within professional environments. The accusations against Pearsall serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal boundaries, particularly in settings where individuals are expected to feel secure and respected.