Bemidji, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — A 42-year-old Bemidji man is facing disturbing felony charges after investigators say he traveled across Minnesota, taking secret photos of young girls.
According to court documents, Adam Joseph Skoog of Bemidji has been charged with two felony counts of aggravated stalking – victim under 18 with sexual intent, and one gross misdemeanor count of interference with privacy.
Investigators with the Bemidji Police Department and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) state that Skoog had been traveling across the state, photographing young females without their knowledge. Officers executed a search warrant on his phone and electronic devices, uncovering hundreds of images showing unsuspecting juvenile females — many taken in public retail stores.
Among the evidence cited in the statement of probable cause were photographs taken at the Bemidji Walmart on June 28, 2025, between 8:30 and 9:05 a.m. Surveillance footage confirmed Skoog taking pictures of several girls, some of whom appeared to be elementary or teenage age, while they shopped. The images reportedly focused on the victims’ clothed private areas and were taken without consent.
Investigators described the photos as “surreptitious and sexually motivated.” The victims appeared unaware they were being photographed.
Authorities say Skoog’s case highlights the growing issue of covert photography and child exploitation in public spaces, often made easier through smartphone technology.
He remains charged in Beltrami County District Court, where the felony stalking counts each carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.
For more information about stalking and privacy laws in Minnesota, visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch Criminal Statutes page.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
