Here's Lookin' At Us, Kid

Queens City Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. is set to introduce legislation today thatwill hold Peeping Toms accountable for invading the privacy of others in both private and public places. Violations would be a B misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum of 90 days in jail and $500 fine. The bill is the first of its kind in New York City.

"When John Belushi hides under the bleachers in Animal House, it may be cute. But in real life, it's not so cute. These pervert use their eyes to invade the privacy of people's bodies, leaving many feeling violated," Vallone said. "Yet up until now, there has been a peephole loophole that that gives anyone a license to gawk, leer and spy anywhere they please."

The councilman pursued this legislation due to the actions of a perv in his Astoria district. Several female constituents complained to him in recent months about a man who routinely stands under the steps to the elevated N/W stop outside his office, peering up the skirts of women. When Vallone contacted police, he was told the man could not be arrested because he was breaking no law they could find. Vallone vowed to make this despicable behavior illegal, and hopes this man will be his first arrest.

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