The criminal cases against Batavia chiropractor David Hanson and Reflexion Spa owner Jason Spencer continue to move forward, bringing renewed attention to the rights of patients and customers to be free from invasions of privacy.
This week, Fox News interviewed noted authority Attorney Mitch Sexner, former prosecutor and founder of Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC about the explosion of hidden cameras cases.
That interview can be viewed here.
Recent news that trusted, private wellness settings may have been used for secret recordings has left patients and customers feeling stunned, angry and violated. Such crimes are considered a form of sexual abuse and although there are no such allegations in either of these cases, may sometimes involve sexual assault. Below, we’ll address the most recent developments in these two shocking cases, explain what civil remedies are available to victims and how Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC can help.
The David Hanson Chiropractor Case
What is the Hidden Camera Chiropractor Case About?
Prosecutors allege that Hanson secretly recorded patients—some of them minors—while they were undressed inside his chiropractic office (unfortunately, he’s not the only Chicago-area chiropractor to have recently been recently accused of secretly taping patients, referring to chiropractor Murtaza Hameed). It’s alleged that Hanson hid recording devices behind and inside vents and ceiling fans in his “red light” therapy room. For former patients and families, the case represents a profound breach of trust and demands a search for accountability.
How many Victims are Involved?
From the outset, authorities have emphasized the scale of the investigation. Prosecutors have stated that more than 180 patients may have been secretly recorded. After the case became public, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office reported receiving over 1,500 calls and emails from individuals concerned that they or their children might be victims.
Authorities continue to stress that the investigation is not finished. Many potential victims have not yet been contacted, and investigators have cautioned that a delay does not mean a person was not affected. Reviewing and matching digital evidence to patient records takes time, particularly in a case of this magnitude.
Is David Hanson Criminally Charged?
Yes. David Hanson has been charged with many very serious felonies, some of which require long mandatory prison sentences if he pleads or is found guilty. He is presently charged with multiple counts of producing, possessing and disseminating child pornography, as well as unauthorized videotaping of a minor.
Did Hanson Act Alone?
Prosecutors have publicly stated that, based on the evidence so far, they believe Hanson acted alone and that there is no indication employees or family members were aware of the alleged conduct.
What are the Newest Criminal Court Developments?
As of January 8th, new updates include:
- The case was reassigned to a new Judge
- The court entered a protective order to safeguard victim information
- Hanson appeared via Zoom from jail
- The next major court date was set for March 12th, when a request for media cameras will be addressed
For victims, a protective order is critically important. In cases involving alleged secret recordings, especially where nudity or minors are involved, courts strictly limit access to evidence. These orders are designed to prevent further invasion of privacy and to ensure sensitive materials are not improperly shared or disclosed. Simply put, by doing this, the court has made clear that victim privacy is a priority as the case proceeds.
How long Will the Criminal Case take?
Hidden-camera cases are complex and time-consuming. Investigators must carefully review digital files, storage devices, timestamps, and metadata to determine when recordings were made and who appears in them. While the pace can be frustrating for victims, this detailed forensic process is essential to ensure accuracy and to protect victims from further harm.
What will Happen on the Next Court Date?
In addition to other matters, the court will consider whether cameras will be allowed in the courtroom. In the meantime, several things are likely occurring behind the scenes:
- Continued digital forensic analysis
- Ongoing identification and notification of victims
- Pretrial motions addressing evidence and procedure
- Further court orders governing how sensitive materials are handled
Large, multi-victim cases often take time, but that time is typically spent building a case that can withstand scrutiny and deliver meaningful results for the victims. In the meantime, updates from the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office can be found here at David Hanson Case Updates.
The Jason Spencer Reflexion Spa Case
What is the Hidden Camera Reflexion Spa Case About?
Jason Spencer, identified as the owner of Reflexion Spa in Hinsdale, is accused of placing hidden cameras in at least one massage room, including one hidden in a smoke detector and using these devices to video-record customers without their consent. It’s alleged that these cameras were in place for a very long period of time.
Has Jason Spencer Been Criminally Charged?
Yes. Reports indicate that Spencer faces five felony counts tied to allegedly recording clients without their knowledge or consent. The prosecutor may also choose to add additional counts over the course of the criminal prosecution. In Illinois, “unauthorized video recording” allegations are treated seriously because they involve a direct and serious invasion of privacy—often in spaces where people are changing, undressing, or otherwise expect to be free from surveillance.
How many Victims are Involved?
All indications are that more than 60 victims have already been identified by Hinsdale Police as being secretly recorded in massage rooms. Many have been contacted directly by the police and asked to come to the station to identify their images. It should be stressed though that just because a person has not been contacted by police doesn’t necessarily mean that they may not have been affected as this is an ongoing police investigation. Evidence review takes time and victim notifications may happen in phases.
How was the Secret Camera Discovered?
Reports are that police received an anonymous tip in December 2024 about an illegal “smoke detector” hidden camera at the spa’s location. The investigation that followed after discovery and confirmation of the device continues to involves tracing what was stored, when recordings occurred, and whether any files were copied or moved.
Digital evidence cases often require forensic analysis—reviewing storage devices, timestamps, device settings, and file histories. That forensic process can be slow, but it is often the key to proving what happened and identifying people who may have been recorded.
Did the Spa Close After Cameras Were Discovered?
Although the City of Hinsdale did not renew the spa’s business license once the allegations came to light and the Spa closed temporarily while appealing the decision, reports indicate the Spa reopened for a time and continued to book appointments for massages and other services.
What are the Newest Criminal Court Developments?
Initially, an arrest warrant was issued for Spencer on December 30th, then later appearing in court on January 20th. Spencer is next due in court in early February. A felony case such as this may take months to years to finish, especially considering that digital evidence is involved. Although his case is in the very early stages, subsequent court dates will address scheduling, possible requests by his defense attorney for release, how discovery (the sharing of all evidence with the defendant’s attorney) will be handled, and of great importance to victims-- protective orders, which will regulate how the parties plan to handle evidence and protect the privacy of witnesses/victims. It is anticipated that a Judge in a case like this will impose very strict controls.
Can a Civil Lawsuit be Filed While a Criminal Prosecution is still Underway?
Yes, a civil case can proceed even while the criminal case is pending. At the core of these cases is the expectation of privacy that patients have when undressing for wellness care or medical treatment. When that expectation is violated, both criminal and civil laws provide avenues for justice.
A criminal prosecution is specifically about public accountability and punishment—and if the government can prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, what penalties and punishment will apply. If these defendants are convicted and sentenced, victims may experience some degree of relief that “justice has been done”.
So Why File a Civil Lawsuit?
A civil lawsuit similarly concerns justice and accountability, but it also focuses on your losses and your recovery. It’s very common that a victim’s mental health is adversely affected by traumatic events such as these. Shock, embarrassment, anger and anxiety are all valid responses, while long-term trust issues and PTSD may continue to affect a person’s future enjoyment of life and personal relationships.
So, wrongdoers should not only be criminally prosecuted but also held financially responsible for their harmful actions as well. Although no amount of money can ever turn back time and make it so that this never happened, recovering monetary compensation from the offender can help ease the financial burden of counselling, therapy and maybe make life a little easier.
In hidden-camera cases, monetary damages can include compensation for:
- Emotional distress and psychological harm
- Costs of counseling/therapy
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Other out-of-pocket losses tied to these traumatic events
- Other “Punitive” dollar amounts specifically intended to punish the defendant monetarily and send a clear message that this criminal behavior will not be tolerated.
The filing of a civil claim requires that it be filed before a specific “Statute of Limitations” date (time deadline), meaning that if it is not filed in court by that date, all rights to file will be forever lost. It’s very important for you to know what date applies to your particular case. You can ask us to calculate that for you if you choose to contact us.
We Can Help. Privacy is a Right - Not a Luxury
When someone enters a spa, massage room, or treatment space, they have every reason to expect privacy and dignity. Hidden-camera and secret recordings involving healthcare and wellness providers are especially disturbing because they strike at the very core of trust. Patients are entitled to feel safe and respected when seeking care. When that trust is violated, the legal system provides paths toward accountability through both criminal prosecution and civil justice.
Since 1990, Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC has recovered over $30,000,000 for our clients and their families, providing compassionate and confidential representation for those harmed by the acts of others. No fees are ever charged until we’re successful. We welcome you to reach out 24/7 for free information at (312) 243-9922.
