North London women were secretly filmed in their homes by dad who posed 'real risk'

A father-of-two was arrested after being caught on camera filming women through their windows at night, according to police records. Anthony Durkan, 36, of Islington, north London, pleaded guilty to 19 voyeurism charges at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on July 21, 2026. This followed seven prior guilty pleas to similar charges filed on March 26 at the same court, bringing the total number of offenses to 26. The case emerged following a series of incidents where men were observed engaging in suspicious behavior near residential areas, leading to increased police scrutiny. Police released video footage from Durkan’s arrest on March 25, 2026, showing him approaching a house on tiptoe with his face covered and peering through windows. He then placed his phone past a window railing to film inside. Body-worn footage captured a plainclothes officer approaching Durkan as he loitered outside a residence while holding a mobile phone. The officer informed him he was under arrest for voyeurism. Durkan responded with surprise, saying “Voyeurism?” before being handcuffed and having his phone confiscated. During a police interview, an officer noted a “hidden folder” on Durkan’s phone contained 162 videos and 99 photos. All but three images appeared to depict women unaware they were being filmed. Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Alger, who oversaw the investigation, stated that Durkan’s actions constituted a “serious and sustained course of predatory behaviour,” targeting women without their knowledge or consent. She praised the bravery of the women who came forward with reports, which, combined with witness accounts and prompt investigations, allowed authorities to take action against Durkan. The Metropolitan Police emphasized that the convictions reflect the gravity of these crimes and that Durkan has been removed from the streets, reducing potential risks to women in London. The police department issued an appeal for women in north London who might have noticed unusual activity around their homes between January 2020 and March 2026. They encouraged reporting of suspicious behavior, including individuals lingering near residences, looking through windows, or using electronic devices to capture footage. Footage from doorbell or CCTV cameras was highlighted as potentially valuable in identifying more victims. Officers are currently reviewing historical crime reports where no suspects had been identified, linking them to Durkan’s activities. This process aims to locate additional victims and ensure justice for those affected. Durkan’s devices, including five additional mobile phones and a small camera, were seized for further analysis. The examination of these items revealed evidence of further voyeurism offenses, connecting Durkan to incidents dating back to January 2020. The police team is actively working to identify more victims and gather more information. Those wishing to provide information can contact the investigation team directly via email at OpParinga@met.police.uk or reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Durkan was released on conditional bail and will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on a date yet to be determined. His case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat voyeuristic behavior and protect community safety. The incident highlights the importance of public vigilance and cooperation in addressing such crimes.