Judge criticized over cameras in break rooms

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) — A Washington County judge is facing criticism after she ordered cameras to be installed in a break room used by justices of the peace and county employees.

Judge Marilyn Edwards’ chief of staff George Butler says two cameras shaped like smoke detectors were purchased for more than $1,000 in August and installed around October.

During a Public Works Committee meeting Monday, Justice Eva Madison said any audio recording may have violated employees’ privacy.

County attorney Steve Zega says the county didn’t violate laws and that signs were put in the break room to notify people of the cameras before recordings were made.