V.I. National Park Superintendent John King has vowed to increase ranger patrols of park beaches after complaints from park visitors about inappropriate sexual behavior and sexual advances, the latter sometimes directed at children.
"Park patrols will be increased at all beaches, with special attention paid to Solomon Beach, where we've received a number of recent complaints about disturbances and inappropriate behavior," King said.
He said Solomon Beach, which is well-known as a nude beach, will be the particular focus of the patrols, though complaints have been received about other beaches as well.
"We've heard of some contact from adults soliciting children, and we intend to make sure we put a stop to that kind of predatory behavior," said King, who vowed "appropriate enforcement" of the law against perpetrators.
King said the move is not intended as a crackdown on nude sunbathing, though he pointed out that there is a territorial ordinance against nudity. He said rangers may ask nude beachgoers to clothe themselves in the interest of promoting a safer atmosphere for all visitors.
The increased patrols will begin immediately and extend indefinitely, according to a statement from the park. Visitors are asked to immediately report any disturbances or inappropriate behavior to park personnel or call 776-6201, ext. 237.
