Arrest Made In Erin Andrews' Nude Video Case

NFL News - October 3rd, 2009 - Written by Jimmy

Authorities have revealed that they have arrested a Chicago area native, Michael David Barrett, in connect to the nude, hotel room videos made of ESPN side line reporter Erin Andrews.

Barrett, 48, was arrested at Chicago's O'Hare Airport after a flight from Buffalo, NY. on Friday Night. Barrett is scheduled to appear in court on Saturday morning to face charges of interstate stalking for trying to solicit the videos to TMZ, as well as posting them to the Internet.

While attempting to sell these videos to TMZ, an employee notified Andrews' attorneys of Barrett's actions according to the filed complaint.

Andrews' attorney, Marshall Grossman, notified her late Friday night to inform her of the arrest. "I think she's probably sleeping more soundly tonight than she has since these videos surfaced," Grossman said in an interview with the Associated Press.

It was determined that a total of 8 videos were made of Andrews through modified door peepholes. Barrett would regularly call hotels to find out where Erin Andrews was staying, and would request a room next to hers.

The FBI also determined that 7 of the 8 videos were shot in a Nashville hotel in September of 2008. It is believed that during that time, Barrett shot the videos on a cell phone camera.

In the complaint, it states, Barrett sought to place Andrews under surveillance to harass and intimidate her, and to cause substantial emotional distress.

Should Barrett be convicted of the charges, he will be facing a maximum of 5 years in a federal penitentiary.

In addition to the federal charges, Andrews will be seeking damages caused in a civil lawsuit against Barrett, along with anyone who publishes the material.

Andrews was extremely grateful for all the efforts made by law enforcement agencies in putting this case together. Throughout this process, she has been working closely with law enforcement officials along with a private investigation firm to help build a case against Barrett.

In a statement released on Saturday morning, Andrews said "For my part, I will make every effort to strengthen the laws on a State and Federal level to better protect victims of criminal stalking,"

Andrews returned to work on September 3rd for ESPN. Erin Andrews is slated to cover the Auburn vs. Tennessee game tonight, from Knoxville, TN.

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