Naples Pier sees various reports of inappropriate behavior

A man was arrested this week after allegedly exposing himself on the Naples Pier, marking at least the fourth recorded incident of indecent behavior at the renowned seaside spot this year.

The Naples Police Department examined witnesses who said 28-year-old Johnley Saint Juste exposed his genitals to nine persons, including two children, on Wednesday.

“Seven sworn statements from victims say this individual had his pants pulled down and was masturbating in front of people,” said Lt. Bryan McGinn of the Naples Police Department, according to a recent article by Mahmoud Bennett of FOX4.

McGinn stated that this was not a unique instance.

In recent months, officers have responded to at least four similar incidents on the Naples Pier.

“These incidents happen sporadically throughout the year,” says McGinn. “It’s a destination area that brings in people from all over the country and the world,” he told reporters.

In August, a 74-year-old man was arrested after allegedly walking naked on the beach. In May, a couple was accused of indulging in sexual conduct on the pier before a spectator and four children witnessed it.

McGinn explained that such criminal action is frequently used for shock value.

Project Help, a local victim services organization, warns that the psychological impacts on victims can be long-lasting.

“It’s traumatic because it’s not something you’d normally see,” said Eileen, a Project Help representative. “The impact can last a long time, and sometimes people don’t realize they need to talk about it,” she said.

Indecent exposure is a crime, and in some cases, the Naples Police Department said it might be categorized as a felony.

McGinn stressed the community’s participation in resolving this public issue.

“Report suspicious behavior immediately,” McGinn urged. “It’s that really that great partnership we have with the community that makes these instances go that much smoother,” he stated.

This article originally appeared on FOX4