A caregiver who secretly installed a camera in her boss's office and recorded private footage has won $2.78 million in damages in the United States.

A secret camera scandal in the United States has resulted in a court ruling. Colombian live-in caregiver Kelly Andrade (28) won her case against her employer Michael Esposito (35) and is entitled to $2.78 million in damages.

The incident occurred in Staten Island, New York. Esposito, the owner of the LaRosa Grill restaurant chain, was accused of placing a hidden camera in Andrade's bedroom smoke detector. Allegedly, the camera recorded "hundreds" of Andrade's private images.

The jury in Manhattan ordered Esposito and his wife Danielle to pay $780,000 in emotional distress damages. Additionally, Michael Esposito was awarded $2 million in punitive damages.

Andrade had come to the U.S. through the Cultural Care Au Pair program. She was hired to care for the four children of the Esposito family. However, three weeks later, she noticed something strange about the smoke detector in her room and discovered the hidden camera inside.

After the incident came to light, Andrade stated that she jumped out of the window in fear and sought refuge in a police station. She handed over the camera's memory card to the police.

Father of four, Esposito, was arrested on March 24, 2021, on charges of illegal surveillance. The incident sparked discussions about the safety of au pair programs in the U.S.

Andrade's attorney stated, "This ruling emphasizes the importance of personal privacy rights and shows that such crimes must be taken seriously."

Esposito's attorney announced that they would appeal the decision.

This incident highlights the risks that au pairs working in foreign countries may face, while also bringing attention to the responsibilities of employers. Experts emphasize the need for stricter oversight and security measures in au pair programs.