OKLAHOMA CITY — An Oklahoma City firefighter has been arrested and charged with violating the privacy of two juveniles after secretly recording them with a hidden camera, authorities say.
Travis Meske, a firefighter with the Oklahoma City Fire Department, was taken into custody last week and faces two felony counts of taking clandestine photographs related to the incident. Court documents reveal disturbing details about the discovery of the concealed recording device.
Hidden Camera Found in Juvenile’s Bedroom
According to investigators, the case began in January when a juvenile discovered a hidden camera in her room that was disguised as a smoke detector. Recognizing something was wrong, she removed the device and drove to a friend’s house, where the friend’s parents immediately reported it to the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies later recovered the camera and reviewed its contents, finding videos of two juveniles in various stages of nudity, as well as footage showing Meske himself installing the camera.
Law Enforcement Reacts to Disturbing Discovery
Aaron Brilbeck, public information officer for the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, expressed shock at the nature of the case, particularly given Meske’s profession.
“Given that he’s a firefighter, it’s especially appalling in this case. You’ve got somebody who you’re trusting to hang up something that’s supposed to save your life, not make your life terrifying, and that’s exactly what it is for these victims.”
Brilbeck’s remarks underscore the betrayal of trust felt by the community and the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating the case.
Official Department Response
News 4 reached out to the Oklahoma City Fire Department and was sent the following statement:
“The Oklahoma City Fire Department is aware of the arrest of one of our firefighters.
We hold all members of our department to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability. The employee involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of both the criminal investigation and an internal administrative review.
Because this is an active investigation, we are limited in the details we can provide at this time. However, we want to assure the public that we take matters of this nature seriously and remain committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of the community we serve.
Our department will continue to cooperate fully with the investigating agency and will take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.
No further information is available for release at this time.”
The sheriff’s office also notes that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Summary of the Case
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Travis Meske |
| Occupation | Firefighter, Oklahoma City Fire Department |
| Charges | Two counts of taking clandestine photographs (felony) |
| Victims | Two juveniles |
| Discovery | Hidden camera disguised as a smoke detector |
| Investigation | Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office |
| Status | Arrest made; possible additional charges |
An Oklahoma City firefighter, Travis Meske, now faces serious felony charges after a concealed camera — hidden in what looked like a smoke detector — was found in a juvenile’s bedroom. The discovery, reported to law enforcement by concerned citizens, revealed recorded videos of minors and footage showing the suspect installing the device.
Authorities have condemned the conduct, highlighting the breach of trust given Meske’s role as a first responder. The investigation remains active, with the sheriff’s office indicating that more charges could be possible as the case develops.
