Elmira Man Sentenced For Secret Recording At Oregon Country Fair
An Elmira man received three years of probation after pleading guilty to secretly recording people in a nude shower area at the Oregon Country Fair. The case raises concerns about privacy, mental health treatment, and safety at large community events that draw tens of thousands of visitors.
A 31 year old Elmira resident was sentenced on November 17, 2025 to three years of probation after pleading guilty to recording people without their knowledge or consent in a nude shower area at the Oregon Country Fair. Elijah David Russo admitted to the offense, which occurred on July 5 in an area known as the Ritz, and was convicted of first degree invasion of personal privacy, a felony. His sentence included 15 days in jail with credit for time served and a prohibition on any contact with the Oregon Country Fair during his probation.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office arrested Russo during fair setup weekend following the July incident, and he had been released on electronic monitoring pending court action. Court records indicate Russo is undergoing mental health treatment, and prosecutors agreed to a 15 day jail term rather than a 30 day term to allow him to continue that care and because of potential evidentiary complications tied to unidentified victims.
The Oregon Country Fair draws about 45,000 people over three days, making it one of the region’s largest cultural gatherings. Vendors, participants and attendees reported that the recording violated a basic trust that underpins the event, especially in spaces designed for privacy and communal care. Organizers and community members will now face questions about how to strengthen safety protocols in intimate areas while preserving the inclusive atmosphere that brings so many people together.
Beyond the criminal case, public health and social equity issues linger. Secret recording in a nude shower area can cause lasting psychological harm, amplify barriers to reporting, and retraumatize people who may already face marginalization. The fact that potential victims remain unidentified complicates efforts to connect survivors with supports, and underscores gaps in outreach and trauma informed response at large public events. Mental health treatment for the defendant was a factor in sentencing, highlighting the intersection between public safety, therapeutic needs, and the criminal justice system.
Lane County agencies and event organizers now confront policy choices about surveillance, staff training, reporting pathways and survivor services. Investments in trauma informed on site care, clear reporting options for attendees, and accessible mental health resources could help rebuild trust and reduce harm. For residents who attend or work at large communal events, the case is a reminder of the importance of vigilance and of community efforts to create safer spaces for everyone.
The court files show the sentence took prior record into account, noting Russo had no prior felony convictions. As probation begins, the no contact order with the Oregon Country Fair aims to prevent further harm while the community weighs longer term changes to protect privacy and support those affected.
