RIC creates email and website for updates and support regarding hidden camera incident

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island College has created resources for the college’s community regarding an employee arrested in connection to a hidden camera found in a restroom.

On Feb. 25, 49-year-old Dean Faiola, of Cranston, was arrested at his home after he allegedly set up a hidden camera in a restroom at Donovan Dining Hall, according to Providence police.

According to RIC, Faiola was the assistant director of dining procurement and resources.

In response to the situation, RIC is providing an email address for those who believe they may have been affected, which can be reached at incidentresponse@ric.edu.

Additionally, a website with information, updates, and resources for support is available here.

The RIC Police Department and Providence Police Department are conducting a second search on Wednesday of every restroom on campus to ensure there are no hidden cameras.

“The safety and security of our campus community is our top priority,” RIC President Dr. Jack R. Warner said. “The individual responsible for this incident has been arraigned and we expect him to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.  I want to thank both RIC Campus Police and Providence Police for their diligent work on this case to protect our community. We will not let the alleged criminal actions of one individual jeopardize the safety and security of our campus community.”

On Feb. 20, a student worker reported to have found a hidden camera inside a single-occupancy restroom in Donovan Dining Hall, according to RIC Director of Communications and Public Relations John Taraborelli.

The RIC Police Department notified Providence police, which began investigating the incident.

On Feb. 21, RICPD searched every restroom on campus and did not find any cameras, according to Taraborelli. 

Both departments believe the incident was committed by one person and limited to the one restroom.

Faiola appeared in district court Wednesday morning for his arraignment, and was released.

Faiola’s next court date is May 28.