A man from Bern has received a conditional fine and a regular fine after secretly filming nude sauna guests in the Aare river. The individual used hidden cameras placed in a forest opposite the Lorrainebad area, where people cool off after using a yurt sauna during winter months.
The perpetrator, whose actions spanned two winters, was caught after walkers discovered the concealed recording devices. Police investigations led to his conviction in November 2025.
Key Takeaways
- A Bern man secretly filmed nude sauna guests for two winters.
- Hidden cameras were found near the Aare river at Lorrainebad.
- The man was convicted in November 2025.
- He received a conditional fine of 4900 francs and a 700 franc fine.
- The motive was personal sexual gratification.
Discovery of Hidden Cameras
The incident came to light when members of the public found cameras hidden in the forest. These devices were positioned on the opposite bank of the Aare river, directly facing a set of stairs. Saunagoers at the Lorrainebad use these stairs to enter the river for a cold dip, a common practice after a sauna session.
The Lorrainebad area operates traditional yurt saunas during the winter. This setup makes the location popular for those seeking a unique wellness experience, often involving nude bathing in the river.
Important Dates
- February 2024: The man's activities were exposed.
- November 2025: The man was legally convicted.
- The filming took place over two winter seasons before discovery.
Police Investigation and Motive
After the initial report about the cameras, police followed up on previous information. This led them to search the man's home in Bern. Authorities confiscated several electronic devices and data storage units during the search.
The official criminal order, obtained by the "Berner Zeitung," revealed the man's motivation. He filmed the individuals for personal sexual gratification at a later time. This finding was central to the charges brought against him.
"The man filmed the nude bathers to personally satisfy himself sexually at a later time."
Legal Consequences for the Perpetrator
The court found the man guilty of violating the secret or private sphere through recording devices. This charge carries significant legal weight, especially when involving hidden surveillance of private activities.
He received a conditional monetary penalty of 4900 Swiss francs. This type of penalty means the payment is suspended on the condition that the offender does not commit another crime within a specified probation period.
Understanding Conditional Penalties
A conditional fine in Switzerland is a suspended sentence. The convicted person does not have to pay the fine immediately if they adhere to certain conditions, typically avoiding further offenses within a set timeframe. This aims to deter future criminal behavior.
In addition to the conditional fine, the man must pay a direct fine of 700 Swiss francs. Court fees amounting to 980 Swiss francs were also imposed, adding to the financial burden of his conviction.
Additional Charge: Misleading Justice
The perpetrator faced an additional charge of misleading justice. This stemmed from an attempt to cover his tracks. He had previously reported one of the installed cameras as stolen.
This act further complicated the case and resulted in an additional conviction. Misleading justice is a serious offense, undermining the integrity of legal proceedings.
- Conditional fine: 4900 francs
- Direct fine: 700 francs
- Court fees: 980 francs
- Convicted for violation of privacy.
- Convicted for misleading justice.
Community Impact and Public Awareness
The discovery of the hidden cameras caused concern within the local community. Public spaces, even those where nude bathing is accepted, are expected to be free from covert surveillance.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance among citizens. The actions of the walkers who discovered the cameras were crucial in bringing the perpetrator to justice. It also serves as a reminder for individuals to be aware of their surroundings, even in seemingly private outdoor settings.
Authorities emphasize that privacy violations, especially those motivated by sexual interest, are taken seriously. The court's swift action in this case reinforces the legal protections for individuals against such intrusions.