An Atascadero couple is suing a local handyman convicted of taking a video under the wife's clothing while working at their home.
In a complaint filed September 18, Tanya and Robert Degnan of Atascadero asserted that Eric Lee Owens has permanently disrupted their lives.
The complaint accuses Owens of invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress.
It goes on to say the plaintiff has suffered hospital and medical expenses, general damage, and punitive damages, and the Degnans are now hoping for compensation in an undetermined amount.
Back in August, Owens pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor offense of using a device to see through clothing for arousal.
This was nearly six years after the crime occurred, but the Degnans' attorney says they wouldn't have known about the recording if Owens' wife had not contacted them after finding the video on a computer.
As part of his sentencing, Owens was ordered to stay 50 yards away from Tanya Degnan, pay a $280 fine and was put on three years probation.
The Degnans' attorney says the lawsuit is expected to go to court in 2020.
Owens is the owner of Handy Home SLO and was also involved in the Central Coast Youth Football League (CCYFL).
CCYFL issued the following statement to KSBY News:
Within one hour of being made aware of the situation regarding Mr. Owens, CCYFL removed him from any leadership role and any affiliation with the youth of our community with Atascadero Youth Football and Cheer and any Central Coast Youth Football and Cheer organizations. CCYFL has in place stringent background check protocols which includes relying on reporting from the DOJ. In light of the current event, the board is reviewing these protocols to make sure we are continuing to do everything to ensure the safety of the youth players.
We have reached out to the attorney representing the Degnans as well as Eric Lee Owens for comment and are still waiting to hear back.
