The Shocking Verdict in Aiken: Hidden Cameras and a $27 Million Liability
Aiken, South Carolina, has been the center of a shocking courtroom drama this week as a jury found wealthy socialite Rhett Riviere and his ex-wife, Josee Riviere, liable for a staggering $27 million in a voyeurism trial. The case revolves around their disturbing actions of invading a couple’s privacy by secretly recording them in intimate situations and even in the bathroom using hidden cameras in a rental cottage. The intense weeklong trial culminated with the jury, comprised of seven women and five men, deliberating for about four hours before arriving at their decision.
A Troubling Background and the Crespos’ Discovery
This all began back in 2001 when Gabriel and Heather Crespo rented a cottage owned by Rhett Riviere. For years, they were blissfully unaware of the secret cameras set up throughout the property. Much to their horror, it was later revealed that Riviere had been recording them without their consent, labeling the footage with their names—”Heather and Gabriel.” Can you imagine the shock they felt when they discovered not just a few clips, but a staggering 21,000 videos that Riviere had amassed over two decades of renting out his properties?
It wasn’t until the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) got involved that the Crespos learned of the extensive hidden camera operation. The scope of Riviere’s invasion of privacy, spanning numerous rental properties and years, came to light during the trial. It marked the first time Riviere faced accountability for his actions, which brought forward the traumatic experiences of many other individuals who had rented from him. The Crespos’ lawsuit was a significant step in bringing these actions to public awareness.
Courtroom Revelations and Jury’s Decision
As the trial unfolded, the jury found that Rhett Riviere had committed acts of negligence, invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Additionally, the jury ruled that he had violated the Unfair Trade Practices Act and committed fraud. Interestingly, the jury laid most of the responsibility on Riviere himself, holding him primarily accountable for the damages. His ex-wife, Josee, was also found guilty of violating the same act, resulting in a fine of $1 million for her part.
The massive $27 million awarded doesn’t end the legal drama. The trial is set to continue as the same jury will reconvene to discuss punitive damages aimed at punishing the defendants and sending a strong message about the severity of their actions. This serves as a reminder that privacy violations such as these can have serious social implications.
The Next Steps: A Continuing Legal Battle
With the upcoming phase of the trial, the stakes remain high for both parties involved. Riviere, who has accumulated an unsettling history that includes three counts of voyeurism charges still pending, continues to invoke the 5th Amendment when pressed about his actions on the stand. Despite once being involved with Airbnb rentals, the company made it clear that it severed ties with him back in 2019, well before any of these disconcerting events unfolded.
The courtroom drama also revealed fascinating backstories, including the legacy of Riviere’s family. With a background in property development and a lineage that includes a member of Congress and an oil tycoon, Rhett Riviere’s life was one of privilege—a sharp contrast to the reality of his actions.
A Community in Shock
The verdict has left the community of Aiken reeling. As more details emerge, many residents are left questioning how someone could commit such an egregious act and evade justice for so long. With many eyes now turning toward the upcoming punitive damages phase, it feels like the story is far from over.
As the residents of Aiken process this revelation and await the next chapter in this courtroom saga, the outcome stands as a reminder that respect for privacy is crucial in an age where surveillance has become increasingly common. Stay tuned as this story develops; it’s one that has captured hearts and stirred up reactions across the community.
