Suburban Chicago spa owner charged after police say he secretly recorded clients

HINSDALE, Ill. - A suburban Chicago spa owner is facing felony charges after prosecutors say he secretly recorded clients using hidden cameras.

What we know:

Jason Spencer, 51, is charged with five felony counts of unauthorized videotaping. 

Hinsdale Police Chief Brian King said detectives, in coordination with the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office, worked the case for more than a year, ultimately identifying at least 60 victims who were unknowingly and illegally recorded. 

The secret recordings were allegedly made at Reflexion Spa, which is owned by Spencer. The spa is located on the second floor of a commercial building at 49 ½ South Washington Street in downtown Hinsdale. 

According to the spa's website, it offers massages, facials, waxing services, and other body treatments.

Police said they received a tip about a possible hidden camera in December 2024. During the course of their lengthy investigation, officers discovered concealed cameras inside treatment rooms, along with a recording device and a hard drive.

In a statement shared with FOX Chicago, King said detectives spent months reviewing video and interviewing hundreds of customers. He added that the victims had no idea they were being recorded.

Police said they do not believe any other crimes were committed at the business.

"We recognize the serious and lasting impact this violation of privacy has had on the victims. The Hinsdale Police Department remains committed to supporting those affected and to working with the State’s Attorney’s Office to ensure accountability for those responsible. We encourage anyone who observes suspected illegal activity to report it to law enforcement," said King.  

An arrest warrant was issued for Spencer on Dec. 30. 

Hinsdale Village President Greg Hart said once the allegations came to light, the village did not renew the spa’s business license, which expired last month.

"The Village has zero tolerance for businesses that violate the law or compromise public safety. All businesses operating in Hinsdale are expected to comply with the law and will be held accountable if they fail to do so," said Hart. 

FOX Chicago confirmed that Reflexion Spa was closed Wednesday, with its lights turned off. 

"We commend the Hinsdale Police Department and the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office for their thorough, professional, and sensitive investigation of this matter. We also express our deepest sympathy for the victims affected by this crime," Hart added. 

Reflexion Spa has a second location in Lake View. Currently, there are no reports of hidden cameras being discovered there. 

Upon calling the Lake View location, an employee told FOX Chicago they weren't aware of the allegations against Spencer. 

What they're saying:

Cybercrime expert Detective Rich Wistocki also weighed in, offering advice on how to spot hidden cameras in private spaces.

"If you see a flashing light, a lot of times they’ll put black tape on it," Wistocki said. "A lot of times they’ll cover it with black paint so it’s hard to see it flash. Those are the places you need to look right before you get changed. Ask for a little bit of time, and check vents, sprinkler systems, and outlets."

Wistocki said there is also handheld equipment available for purchase online that can help detect hidden cameras and listening devices.

He added that this case highlights the importance of anonymous tips.

"See something, say something, report something," Wistocki said. "Don't report to anybody else but the police. Don't go on social media because you could be opening yourself to liability. So you want to have the professionals come in, like the state attorney's office, the internet crimes people, to come in and you want to have that reporting done."

What's next:

Spencer is appealing Hinsdale's decision not to renew his license, the attorney for Reflexion Spa confirmed. A hearing is scheduled for Feb. 2. 

As for the criminal charges, Spencer is not being held in jail but is due back in court next month. 

FOX Chicago is still waiting on a statement from Spencer or his criminal attorney regarding the allegations.