RIT Student Charged with Unlawful Surveillance

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) arrested a Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) student in connection with a hidden recording device discovered in a residence hall restroom.

On September 18, 2026, deputies were notified of the discovery by RIT Public Safety. MCSO evidence technicians collected the device, and investigators began working to determine who was responsible for the unlawful recording and to identify victims.

Through investigation it was determined the device was set up on the evening of September 16, 2026. With assistance from RIT Public Safety, MCSO investigators identified Avery E. Bird, 19, of Gloucester, Massachusetts, as a suspect.

Mr. Bird was arrested on October 20, 2026, and charged with:

• Unlawful Surveillance in the Second Degree (Class E felony)

  
  

• Deputies transported Mr. Bird to the Monroe County Jail to await arraignment in CAP Court.

The investigation is ongoing as we attempt to identify all of the victims.