Manager of Portsmouth pizza place pleads not guilty after hidden recording device discovered in restroom

Portsmouth RI – A now former manager of a local pizza place who is facing some disturbing charges, faced a judge on Thursday.

According to a police statement, in November, the Portsmouth Police Department arrested 29-year-old Michael Boone of Portsmouth, a manager at North End Pizzeria at the time, following an investigation into reports of a hidden recording device discovered in the restaurant’s restroom.

“The Portsmouth Police Department received a report from an employee who believed they may have been secretly recorded while using the restroom during a work shift. The employee reported that while inside the restroom, they noticed a mobile phone positioned in such a manner to capture the contents of the room.

“The investigation led to Boone, who was seen entering the restroom shortly before and again immediately after the employee. As part of the investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at Boone’s residence located on Barkers Lane in Portsmouth. During the search, detectives recovered a cell phone, consistent with the one described by the employee, containing digital evidence.

“During questioning, Boone admitted to placing a hidden camera in the restroom and secretly recording employees without their knowledge or consent. During the course of the investigation, detectives identified a second victim who was also recorded without their consent. Boone further admitted to distributing some of the recordings via a social media platform.

“As a result of the investigation, Michael Boone was charged with Video Voyeurism (RIGL §11-64-2), Unauthorized Dissemination of Indecent Material (RIGL §11-64-3), and Disorderly Conduct (RIGL §11-45-1).

“Boone was processed at Portsmouth Police Headquarters and later arraigned before a Justice of the Peace, who set his bail at $1,000 with surety.”

Court records show that at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, a warrant had been issued for Boone for not showing up at his arraignment, however at just after 3:30 p.m. the warrant was canceled after appearing.

Boone pled not guilty with his bail remaining at $1,000 with surety which he had previously posted.

A pretrial conference is scheduled for July 22nd.