UPDATE: A former police officer in Florissant, Missouri, has pleaded guilty to illegally accessing the phones of 20 women during traffic stops to steal nude photographs. Julian Alcala, 30, admitted in a U.S. District Court that he manipulated victims into handing over their phones under false pretenses between February 6 and May 18, 2024.
While on duty and in uniform, Alcala used a marked police vehicle to pull over women, claiming he needed to verify insurance or check vehicle registration. Once he had their phones, he searched them without a warrant or probable cause. He then used his own phone to capture images of the victims or their loved ones in various states of nudity, which he found in apps and folders.
Alcala’s actions came to light after one victim discovered he had forwarded a video of her to his personal phone. Following the report to the FBI, an investigation revealed further evidence of his misconduct. He resigned from the Florissant Police Department in June 2024, shortly after the probe began.
The Florissant Police Department expressed its outrage on social media, stating, “We are disgusted at this behavior, which is a complete betrayal of the values we uphold.” They emphasized their commitment to transparency and rebuilding trust within the community.
Investigators executed search warrants for Alcala’s phone and cloud storage, uncovering photographs of 19 additional victims. Alcala now faces 20 counts of deprivation of rights under color of law, each carrying a potential penalty of up to one year in jail and fines of $100,000. His sentencing is scheduled for March 11, 2026.
The case has raised serious concerns about police accountability and the violation of personal privacy during traffic stops. Authorities are urging victims of similar misconduct to come forward as the investigation continues.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
