Two Florida men have been found guilty of unlawfully recording videos inside multiple Social Security field offices in Central Florida. U.S. Magistrate Judge Embry J. Kidd convicted Joshua Joseph Gray, 45, of New Smyrna Beach, and George Douglas Metz, 51, of Belleview, after a bench trial.
The evidence presented at trial showed that between November 2022 and January 2023, Gray and Metz entered three different Social Security offices while recording video.
READ: Grim Discovery After 2 Bodies Found In JetBlue Plane’s Landing Gear Compartment In Florida
Despite clear signage prohibiting recording and verbal warnings from Social Security personnel, they continued to film, capturing images of the public and employees conducting business.
Gray and Metz subsequently posted these videos on their YouTube channels, where they monetized the content through advertising revenue and solicited donations.
The court found that their actions violated regulations designed to protect the privacy of individuals conducting sensitive business within Social Security offices.
READ: Former Florida Deputy Confesses To 1979 Murder While On His Deathbed In Tennessee
Judge Kidd sentenced both Gray and Metz to six months’ probation and a $3,000 fine.
The Federal Protective Service and the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General investigated the case, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Del Mastro prosecuted it.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.