A local dentist is facing almost 40 charges in relation to a hidden surveillance camera found in the employee restroom of his office.

Jeremy Michael Crow, 45, of Washington, Pa., turned himself in to Weirton police Monday following a three-month investigation into a complaint filed by one of his employees. He has been charged with 39 misdemeanor counts of criminal invasion of privacy.

According to information provided by Chief Charlie Kush, police received a report on May 14 from an employee of Crow Dental Associates, claiming to have found a water bottle containing the camera in the employee-only restroom.

During the investigation, police report at least 10 female employees indicated seeing the same water bottle in the employee restroom.

“There was a lot of information to go through,” Kush said, noting Weirton Police have been working closely with the Brooke County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office throughout the investigation.

Kush indicated there currently is no evidence any cameras were found in the public restroom of the business, located at 389 American Way, Weirton.

The level of the charges is established under state criminal code, Kush noted.

According to magistrate records available online through the West Virginia court system, a warrant was issued for Crow on Wednesday, through Brooke County Magistrate Court. Kush indicated Crow was arraigned Monday in Hancock County, as that is where he was taken into custody, and released on $20,000 bond.

“It’s still an open investigation,” Kush said, explaining any additional evidence would be provided to the Brooke County Prosecutor’s Office.

Kush noted each of the 39 counts could result in up to a year in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.

“Upon reviewing the criminal complaints charging Dr. Crow with misdemeanor offenses, we have concluded that the government’s case is thin soup at best,” said defense attorney Robert McCoid in a statement. “We are eager to test the prosecution’s evidence in the courtroom and look forward to his acquittal before a jury of his peers. In the meantime, Dr. Crow will continue as usual to provide the top-flight dental care to his patients that they have grown to expect and appreciate.”

Reports indicate civil litigation also is being filed in relation to this case.