Peeping Tom laws—also known as voyeurism laws or invasion of privacy laws—generally make it illegal and a criminal offense to peek into windows or doors on private property to view a person who is fully or partially naked for the purpose of sexual desire or gratification.
Peeping Tom laws vary from state to state and some states require that the victim not realize he or she was being viewed and that the victim had a reasonable expectation of privacy (was in a place where it was reasonable to expect privacy). And some states specifically address the use of unmanned aircraft (drones), cameras, video cameras, and binoculars in connection with such peeping. Some state statutes specifically prohibit peeking into bathrooms, dressing rooms, showers, and baths. And some states characterize this criminal offense as trespassing with the intent to peer or peep.
Peeping Tom laws are located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Arizona, Peeping Tom laws are addressed under the state's voyeurism statutes. Arizona law makes it a criminal offense to invade someone's privacy by knowingly viewing, filming, or photographing them without their consent where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as in their home, bathroom, or dressing room. This applies to situations where a person is nude or engaged in sexual activity, and the intent is for sexual gratification. The use of devices like cameras, binoculars, or other technology to enhance viewing capabilities can aggravate the offense. Additionally, Arizona law includes provisions related to the use of drones for voyeuristic purposes. The offense can range from a class 5 to a class 6 felony, depending on the circumstances, such as the age of the victim and the perpetrator's criminal history. It's important to note that the victim does not need to be aware that they are being watched for the offense to occur. Trespassing with the intent to engage in voyeuristic activities can also be prosecuted under Arizona's criminal trespass statutes.